Utah Jazz

The Stockton-to-Malone Jazz are an all-time NBA aesthetic. Two Finals appearances, both versus Jordan.

The story

Stockton to Malone, and the wall of the Bulls

The Jazz began in New Orleans in 1974 and found their soul in Salt Lake City. John Stockton and Karl Malone ran the pick and roll better than anyone, for longer than anyone, the most durable duo in league history.

They reached back-to-back Finals in 1997 and 1998 and lost both to Michael Jordan's Bulls, the second sealed by Jordan's famous last shot over Bryon Russell. So close, twice, against the immovable object.

The Jazz have remained a model of consistency and player development since, always competitive, still chasing the first title.

Pete Maravich's flair defined the early New Orleans years, and Adrian Dantley's scoring carried the move to Salt Lake, setting the table for the Stockton and Malone era that followed.

For the fans

You back a small market that did everything right and met the greatest player ever at the worst time. Jazz fans respect the craft.

For the punters

A disciplined, well-coached side that rarely beats itself. Reliable against the spread at altitude; the home edge is genuine.

See the Jazz odds board →Rivalries: Bulls · Rockets

Power rank

trend -2

Record

21-33

Conference

West

Division