Small-ball shift favored Utah in second quarter

Defensive schemes

Utah's experimental defensive approach struggled to contain Denver's efficient ball movement and high-IQ play during the exhibition match.

Jazz lineups

Utah's shift to a smaller lineup allowed Isaiah Collier to exploit Denver's defensive perimeter weaknesses, shifting momentum in the second quarter.

Jazz bench

Ace Bailey and Svi Mykhailiuk provided significant value off the bench for Utah through athletic finishing and reliable shot-making.