Ranking the 2 outcomes for the Golden State Warriors first-round opponent

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 02: Jordan Poole #3 of the Golden State Warriors is congratulated by Klay Thompson #11 and Draymond Green #23 after making a three point basket against the Utah Jazz in the fourth quarter at Chase Center on April 02, 2022 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /

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Golden State Warriors potential first-round opponent: Utah Jazz

The Jazz would be a difficult first-round opponent for the Warriors, and it’s mainly because of their dominance offensively and their size.

Utah has the No. 1 offensive rating. They also have the No. 3 net rating, topping even Golden State. Donovan Mitchell leads the team in scoring, averaging 26 points per game and shooting 45% from the field.

On top of their shooting guard’s ability to score at will, Utah has a rare combination of two elite 7-foot rim protectors which may also be difficult for the Warriors to keep off both the offensive and defensive glass.

Hassan Whiteside, earlier in the season, had a 17 rebound game on the Warriors, securing 5 extra opportunities on the offensive glass. 6-foot-6 Draymond Green and 6-foot-9 Kevon Looney have the size to counter the duo to some extent, but it’s certainly easier said than done.

Guard Jordan Clarkson, who can light it up off the bench, will also play a big factor and is almost impossible to stop when he finds his groove. Couple the offensive and defensive prowess with the size of Utah, and they’ll be a difficult first-round opponent wherever they land.

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