Jazz fans cheer as the Utah Jazz and the Orlando Magic play Saturday, April 21, 2012 in Energy Solutions arena.
Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
GUARDS: It certainly wasn't the most consistent effort from start to finish for Devin Harris and Gordon Hayward, but each played a huge role in saving the Jazz's victory. Harris provided one of the game's biggest plays when he blocked Jameer Nelson's shot at the end of the fourth quarter to send the game into overtime. His 3-pointer with 37.9 seconds remaining sealed it for Utah. Hayward, who has played spectacularly for much of the month, hit a 3-pointer to make it 110-105 with 1:38 left in the game. That shot helped make up for his six turnovers. Nelson led Orlando with 23 points. J.J. Redick hit a key 3-pointer during Orlando's 16-0 run in the third quarter, but didn't score in the fourth quarter or overtime.
Grade: B-
FORWARDS: Paul Millsap had a Paul Millsap-type of game in front of a national TV audience. He had four steals and several hustle plays to go along with 18 points and nine rebounds. DeMarre Carroll also made his share of hustle plays, and certainly didn't do anything to hurt the Jazz. His playing time in the fourth quarter and overtime went to Derrick Favors. Jason Richardson mostly shot the lights out for the Magic as he had 21 points and five 3-pointers. Ryan Anderson attempted a whopping 12 3-pointers and made five of them.
Grade: B
CENTERS: Al Jefferson had 21 points and 10 rebounds, but more was probably expected against the Dwight Howard-less Magic. Glen Davis, in some ways, outplayed Jefferson. He had more rebounds, recording a double-double with 17 points and 13 boards.
Grade: B-
BENCH: The Jazz got an early spark from Jamaal Tinsley. Utah started the game in a slumber, but Tinsley got them going in the second quarter. Favors made solid contributions on both ends of the court and played during crunch time. He had a double-double with 16 points and 11 rebounds. The depleted Magic got just 10 points from their bench.
Grade: A
OVERALL: It was probably tougher than anyone expected, but the Jazz pulled out a victory and that's what matters. They were able to beat the Magic with their depth, size and quality play in the paint. Now, it's on to host Phoenix and a chance to clinch a playoff berth.
Grade: B+
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Great win vs. Orlando. Why aren't the jazz playing more with the following line up: Harris, Hayward, Milsap, Favors, and Jefferson. When they have had this lineup on the floor, they seem to perform best. And, why have so many substitute More..