Suns-Jazz Rivalry Heats Up Ahead of Potential Playoff Rematch

Bad Blood Brewing in the Desert

Longstanding rivalry set to reignite as both teams jockey for playoff positioning

The Phoenix Suns and Utah Jazz have a long and storied rivalry that dates back to the 1980s. The two teams have met in the playoffs on several occasions, with the most recent matchup coming in the 2021 Western Conference semifinals. The Suns won that series in six games, but the Jazz have been the more successful team in recent years, winning the Northwest Division the past three seasons.

This season, the Suns and Jazz are both once again among the top teams in the Western Conference. The Suns currently hold a slim lead over the Jazz in the standings, but both teams are likely to be in the mix for a top-four seed in the playoffs.

If the Suns and Jazz meet in the playoffs again this year, it's sure to be a memorable series. The two teams are very evenly matched, and both have shown that they can win in a variety of ways. The Suns have a high-powered offense led by Devin Booker and Chris Paul, while the Jazz have a stingy defense anchored by Rudy Gobert.

The Suns-Jazz rivalry is one of the most heated in the NBA, and it's sure to reach a fever pitch if the two teams meet in the playoffs again this year. Both teams have a lot of pride, and they'll be looking to prove that they're the best team in the West.

Key Players to Watch

* **Devin Booker, Suns:** The All-Star guard is averaging 26.1 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 4.8 assists this season. He's one of the most dangerous scorers in the league and can take over a game at any moment. * **Chris Paul, Suns:** The veteran point guard is averaging 14.9 points, 10.7 assists, and 4.5 rebounds this season. He's one of the best passers in the league and makes everyone around him better. * **Rudy Gobert, Jazz:** The three-time Defensive Player of the Year is averaging 15.1 points, 14.7 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks this season. He's one of the best rim protectors in the league and can alter games with his presence. * **Donovan Mitchell, Jazz:** The All-Star guard is averaging 25.9 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 5.2 assists this season. He's a dynamic scorer who can create his own shot and get to the rim.

Prediction

The Suns and Jazz are both very evenly matched, but I give the Suns a slight edge in a potential playoff series. The Suns have more experience in the playoffs and they have a better overall team. However, the Jazz are a tough team to beat at home, so this series could go either way.