The set-up: Both teams were bounced in the first round of the playoffs last year. Utah has a great core around Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert. THe Jazz gave up an average of 108.9 PPG last year, which was one of the best. The Jazz have gotten stronger in the offseason and note that they were No. 1 in the league in 3-point shooting percentage, hitting 38.5 percent from range.

The pick: Portland is healthy and ready to go as well. The Blazers are an offense first team, as they're defense was among the worst in the league last year (allowed 116.2 PPG). Utah's defense is fresh and I think it'll slow down Portland's shooters and at the same time, I look for the visiting side to dictate the flow as well.

This is a 10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the Utah Jazz.