OKC Thunder vs. Jazz, 3 key takeaways: rivals, free throws and Paul George over everything

The OKC Thunder clung to a one point lead in Utah to capture victory. TI’s three key takeaways break down the high points of the exciting match.

Playing in Utah is never an easy exercise given the high altitude and generally boisterous crowd at Vivint Smart Home Arena. Factor in the OKC Thunder entered on a three game win streak and the Jazz desperate to compile victories to move up the West’s ladder.

As per usual the matchups between the Jazz and Thunder are chippy, competitive and wildly entertaining. Whether it’s Russell Westbrook waging war on the Jazz via a one-man come back from extinction, Donovan Mitchell showcasing his growing tools, Adams and Gobert getting into it under the basket or Paul George and Joe Ingles jawing at each other there is always something to look forward to.

It seems like every game between these two teams has the feel of a playoff game. And this night was no exception!

Paul George was incredible (more on that later) with each of the starters contributing in a meaningful way. Although not one of the key takeaways something important to note is how far the team has come, specifically Westbrook. Since Kevin Durant departed for the Bay there hasn’t been overwhelming confidence the Thunder could win without Russ being the central figure.

That is no longer true as Thunder Nation discovered while Westbrook was out injured and more importantly during the team’s recent rise up the ladder. Knowing this is the case bodes well for the Thunder as Westbrook still seems to be working his way back into full form.

While the game wasn’t a slam dunk and had many of us nervously wringing our hands in the closing seconds the result was all that mattered.

By night’s end the OKC Thunder did something they couldn’t last April and hadn’t since December 22, 2017 – won on Utah’s home court.

With that, I give you the three key takeaways….