George pushes short-staffed Jazz past Hawks 124-122

Keyonte George led the way with 25 points, supported by Collin Sexton’s 21, as the Utah Jazz ended a three-game skid with a narrow 124-122 win over the Atlanta Hawks on Friday night.

Despite missing key players, including Jordan Clarkson, Lauri Markkanen, and Kris Dunn, the short-handed Jazz fielded three rookies, including standout performances from Brice Sensabaugh with 14 points and Taylor Hendricks with 10 rebounds. G-League call-ups Johnny Juzang and Micah Potter also shined with career-high contributions of 19 and 11 points, respectively.

Former Hawk John Collins made his mark against his former team, notching 18 points and 11 rebounds. However, Dejounte Murray stole the show for the Hawks with 33 points, igniting a late rally with consecutive 3-pointers.

Atlanta had two opportunities to steal the win in the closing moments, but Murray missed a crucial 3-pointer, and Vit Krejci’s attempt fell short. It marked a special return to Utah for former Jazz coach Quin Snyder, who received a warm reception from the Delta Center crowd.

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De’Andre Hunter and Jalen Johnson paced the Hawks’ offense with 27 and 26 points, respectively, while Clint Capela dominated the boards with 15 rebounds and 10 points.

Utah’s efficient shooting, connecting on 51.1% from the field and 14 3-pointers, coupled with their dominance in the paint, outscoring Atlanta 56-34, proved crucial. Despite a late surge from the Hawks, the Jazz held on for the victory, buoyed by Sexton’s clutch plays down the stretch.