Spurs can counter all Jazz moves

SAN ANTONIO — The Jazz aren't actually in serious trouble, trailing the Spurs 0-1 in the Western Conference finals, because of this: They have an outstanding point guard. So no problem.

What's that, you say? San Antonio has one, too?

Well, then, the Jazz don't have to worry because they have a monster power forward who can score at will.

Say what?

Oh, yeah. Forgot about that. The Spurs also have one of those.

Nevertheless, the Jazz have a deadeye 3-point shooter, absolutely lights out when he gets cooking.

Wait. Don't tell me. The Spurs have that in triplicate.

Still, all is not lost. The Jazz can always outwork them.

That's their answer to everything.

Except for one thing: The Spurs can work until the sun burns out.

So what are the Jazz supposed to do, hang themselves?

"I don't think it's like we're fretting or scared against this team," said forward Matt Harpring. "We're excited to play this team. It's fun and challenging."

Sure it is, but what will they do to combat San Antonio's depth and breadth? How will they defend the Spurs in Game 2 tonight?

"Top secret," added Harpring.

The Jazz's problem in trying to win tonight's game is just how do you beat a team that knows you like its own practice gym. Here are the Jazz, in the conference finals for the first time since 1998, looking good — and they end up against the Spurs.

And, boy, do the Spurs look familiar. The Jazz like to work relentlessly, taking the ball inside, controlling the tempo, running only when prudent, playing it close to the vest and wearing their opponents down.

Ditto for the Spurs.

The Jazz have Carlos Boozer, an emerging star at power forward. San Antonio has Tim Duncan, arguably the best player in basketball over the past 10 years.

In Deron Williams, the Jazz have a wonderful point guard who drives his team's system. The Spurs have two-time All-Star Tony Parker.

The Jazz have Mehmet Okur, an easygoing EuroCenter who likes to set up outside the arc and launch 3s. San Antonio has Michael Finley, Bruce Bowen and crunch-time specialist Robert Horry — a regular bunch of Buffalo Bill Codys when it comes to fancy shooting.