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Jazz lead series 1-0
The Jazz's victory Saturday night was all about control. They controlled the game from tip-off, had about a 4-minute burp in the 3rd quarter, then continued their strangle hold on the game until the final buzzer. The game showcased the Jazz's ability to play defense and their diversity and depth from player 1 to player 9.
The key to the Jazz taking game two is, really, to do exactly what they did in game 1. Control the boards, control the tempo, play solid defense and force Houston's role players to take the game from them. Scola did cause some problems for the Jazz when the tides seemed to be turning in favor of Houston at the start of the 3rd, and if the Jazz give him free reign again don't be surprised to see Adelman implant him into a pick and roll situation with McGrady a lot more frequently in game 2.
The Rockets' weakness showed in game 1. A lack of a big man, a lack of a reliable place to go for offense, and a lack of keeping the paint clear with the Jazz's big guys crashing the boards all game long. The Jazz had a substantial advantage on the offensive glass during game 1 and it really killed the Rockets, especially in the first half. Houston's other problem seems to be a lack of a reliable, star offensive player for them. McGrady was very passive, uninspired and really ineffective during game 1, and for them to win, McGrady needs to be as aggressive as possible and attack the rim as much as he can handle. Passing it off to role players just won't get the job done.
Houston's key to winning game 2 has to be clearing the boards, getting off to a good start and being the aggressors. They were none of the above in game 1, and without any, at home especially, they may not have a shot to win a single game this series. Look for Adelman to instill Scola in more offensive sets with Scola rolling to the basket. He was their best player during the time that they seemed to be mounting a comeback during game 1.
My Prediction for Game 2: I think the Rockets will come out with a series of adjustments and take advantage of the Jazz's particularly ordinary post defense. I also expect them to step it up on the defensive end and gain a little momentum at home. McGrady is the answer to this and he'll need to assert himself a lot more for Houston to come away with a win. I expect that. Rockets win, 91-84.
Jazz @ Rockets (Round 1 - Game 2): Monday @ 9:30 ET
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