What Does the Gobert Injury Mean?

WHY, WHY, WHY!? This was the reaction of Jazz fans when they saw Rudy Gobert go down within the first 15 seconds of Game 1 with a knee injury. It’s not looking good for Rudy Gobert to get back on the court this series either,he missed Game 2 and is now ruled OUT for Game 3. He’s now the fifth Utah Jazz starter to get hurt this season. Quin Snyder is given another headache in having to put out a starting five without his most impactful defensive player.

The Los Angeles Clippers are catching a huge break, make no mistake. After losing Game 1 with no Gobert on the floor, the Clippers bounced back and took advantage in Game 2. This trend is bound to continue behind DeAndre Jordan. Barring foul trouble, Chris Paul will keep Jordan highly involved in the offense. Blake Griffin, like in Game 2 will continue to attack the rim, with no shot alterer or rim protector down low. Not a knock on Boris Diaw or Derrick Favors, but they aren't defensive or rebounding show stoppers. The Clippers, who after Game 1 looked like possible busters on the way out with disappointment, can now take back the series with a Game 3 win.

The Jazz on the other hand will rely heavily on their guard play, George Hill and Rodney Hood need to be at their best, limiting CP3 and JJ Reddick. At this point in the series after already stealing one on the road, it’s important that the Jazz take Game 3 as a do-or-die. Gordon Hayward especially needs to step up, after just 18 points in Game 2, he needs to play as the All-NBA player he was all season. Playing back at home in front of their fans should give the Jazz some extra energy, especially when you consider that this arena hasn't held a playoff basketball game since 2011-2012.

Unfortunately, if Gobert is done for the series(which many believe he is), so are the Jazz. No matter how scrappy and gritty the Jazz play, the Clippers talent now outweighs that. I had the Jazz in 7,but it’s looking like the Clippers in 6.

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