This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2015, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
In a season where the Utah Jazz have experienced inconsistency, the players and the coaches have come to realize a crucial piece to it all: The 82-game schedule represents a marathon, not a sprint.
What does it all mean? For starters, the Jazz are trying to build habits that last long term, rather than reacting to every win and loss. It's the reason Raul Neto was re-inserted as Quin Snyder's starting point guard. It's a big reason Trey Lyles continues to see significant minutes, even in clutch situations.
The Jazz are patiently waiting for Rudy Gobert's injured knee to heal. But while their defensive anchor remains out with a sprained MCL, Snyder is intent on trying different combinations, working matchups and developing, as well as winning basketball games.
"It's a long season, and I think everyone knows that," Utah forward Trevor Booker said. "You're going to have your ups and downs in a long season. As long as you keep building, you'll be fine."
The Jazz are intent on learning lessons, improving by the game and getting to the point where they are peaking at the right time — just in time to gear up for a playoff run.
Even this past week, you could see subtle change. Gordon Hayward went from struggling in the fourth quarter last Sunday night against Oklahoma City and last Wednesday against the New Orleans Pelicans to taking over the last five minutes in Friday's win over the Denver Nuggets.
Neto went from not playing at all against OKC to playing quite well against the Nuggets. The Jazz knew with Gobert down they would face some struggles, and heading into Monday's game against the Phoenix Suns, they've lost four of their last five games. But other than Wednesday's road matchup against the Golden State Warriors, the Jazz have a home-heavy schedule they know they can make some noise with.
"It's important to try and take advantage of our home games for sure," Utah guard Rodney Hood said. "We've been on the road a lot, but it's good to try and get a rhythm at home. We want to play well in front of our crowd."
Enjoying the reprieve
The Jazz had Saturday off before practicing on Sunday morning in preparation for the Phoenix Suns. Many of the players went Christmas shopping. Many also watched the Utah-BYU football game, which the Utes held on to win 35-28, after taking a five-touchdown lead in the first quarter.
"It was good to get away and relax a bit," Hayward said. "I think we all needed a day where we could get some good rest."
The Jazz worked on closing out to shooters with their hands up in Sunday's practice. In recent games the Jazz have been fouling too much, Hayward said.
Meaning something
Even early in the season, Monday's game looks significant. The Jazz and the Suns could very well be competing for the eighth and final playoff spot later on. So, the season-series between the two looks to be important. Monday's result looks like it will matter in the long run.
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