The Jazz’s defense isn’t as big of a problem for them as it looks (for now)

Writer Matt John argues that the Utah Jazz's early defensive struggles are largely the result of difficult circumstances rather than long-term dysfunction. Utah started the 2026-27 season with a 1-2 record, surrendering 123, 119, and 132 points across their opening three contests. This pushed their defensive rating to 28th in the NBA at 121.8 points allowed per 100 possessions following the departure of rim protector Walker Kessler.

However, John highlights that Utah faced massive individual offensive explosions, conceding 45 points to Ty Jerome and 52 points to Luka Doncic. While John maintains that the Jazz must improve at weathering scoring surges despite having defensive personnel like Jaren Jackson Jr., he contends the team's early defensive rating reflects these extraordinary matchups more than their actual defensive baseline.