Utah Jazz head coach Will Hardy identified rebounding as the primary reason for the team's overtime struggles during their loss to the New Orleans Pelicans on Wednesday night. The defeat, which occurred after a failed buzzer-beater attempt by Keyonte George, extends the Jazz's losing streak to six games.
According to Hardy, the team's initial defense was effective, but they failed to secure necessary secondary rebounds. He noted that players like Zion and Queen put significant pressure on the rim, making it difficult for players at the rim to contest those balls without additional help from secondary rebounders.
During the five-minute overtime period, the Pelicans outrebounded the Jazz 4-2 and held a 2-0 advantage on the offensive glass. This rebounding advantage allowed New Orleans to produce dominant scoring inside the arc. While the Pelicans did not attempt any three-pointers during overtime, their efficiency at the rim resulted in seven free throw attempts, while the Jazz recorded zero.
Hardy also addressed offensive challenges during the game, noting that the team experienced moments of mishandling the ball. He stated that these miscues led to missed moments of decision-making. While the Jazz had several scoring opportunities, the coach emphasized that the primary takeaway from the overtime stretch was the lack of rebounding.
The Jazz currently hold a 1-7 record for the season and sit at the bottom of the Western Conference. This loss marks their second overtime appearance this season, in which they are 0-2.
The Jazz will play their first NBA Cup game this Friday against the Dallas Mavericks.
