PREVIEW: The Portland Trail Blazers will visit the Utah Jazz on Friday night. , a matchup that pits two teams heading in opposite directions. The Jazz sit at 4-17 with an offensive rating of 108.8 and defensive rating of 119.0, ranking 26th and 29th respectively , making them one of the league's most vulnerable squads. Portland's shot quality data reveals strong offensive rebounding at 2nd-ranked efficiency and high-volume three-point attempts ranking 3rd in the league , giving them multiple pathways to score. However, the Blazers struggle with defensive rebounding ranked 27th and inefficient rim attacking also at 27th , presenting opportunities for Utah to stay competitive on the glass. Utah's defensive profile shows trouble stopping three-pointers, allowing 45.7% of opponent attempts and ranking 30th in that category, while their perimeter defense ranks in the bottom tier. The Jazz do excel at passing ranked 3rd and operate at a quick tempo ranked 4th , suggesting they can create offensive rhythm despite their overall struggles. Utah has dropped five consecutive games , but their structural advantages in ball movement and pace could generate scoring bursts if the Blazers become careless with the ball. This game shapes up as a clash between Portland's offensive weapons and Utah's push-tempo attack, with the team that controls transition play likely determining the outcome.