The Toronto Raptors (23-43) are set to face off against the struggling Utah Jazz (15-51) at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City on March 14, 2025. Tip-off is scheduled for 9:30 p.m. ET, with the game available to watch live on League Pass. With the Jazz now firmly positioned as underdogs, they have the dubious honor of being just a half-game above the Washington Wizards for the worst record in the NBA.
The betting odds have the Jazz as 2.5 point favorites over the visiting Raptors, with the over/under set at 234 total points. Utah’s moneyline stands at -135, whereas Toronto’s moneyline is at +114. This matchup has various factors at play, including injuries and recent performances of both teams, which could indicate how the game might shake out.
Despite recent efforts to tank their season—evidenced by frequent injuries to key players and changing lineups—the Raptors have surprisingly won five of their last six games. Meanwhile, the Jazz have stumbled to their seventh consecutive loss, resulting in a staggering 5-23 record over their last 28 games. Utah's injuries are also piling up, with John Collins already ruled out and Lauri Markkanen and Walker Kessler occasionally sidelined because of various ailments.
For Toronto, there’s pressure to manage star player Scottie Barnes, who is listed as questionable for tonight's game. His absence could impact the Raptors’ ability to maintain their recent momentum. Yet even amid these setbacks, there’s something about the Raptors’ recent energy. Many players are fighting hard and appearing competitive, giving anecdotal evidence to suggest they aren’t committed to fully tanking.
Similar to their last meeting on March 7—where the Raptors beat the Jazz 118-109—Toronto's offensive strategy has been to focus on free-flowing play and attacking the paint. Jakob Poeltl and other key players may receive the night off as part of the Raptors’ strategy to preserve their future. This approach has achieved favorable results—but could it work once again against the Jazz?
Analysts are leaning toward the Raptors taking the victory. A notable trend is the Raptors are 15-12 straight up across their last 27 games, setting them up nicely to press their advantage. Their offensive skills have been impressive, scoring effectively and consistently. ESPN analysts noted, "I think the wrong team is favored here," pointing to Toronto’s viability as the moneyline bet.
On the flip side, the Jazz's defensive struggles could serve as fuel for the Raptors. Currently, Utah ranks 29th in defensive rating, allowing 119.8 points per game and struggling to defend against effective field goal attempts. This has resulted in teams finding success against them easily and could lead to another high-scoring night for Toronto.
Prop bets are also garnering interest, with RJ Barrett of the Raptors anticipated to outperform his points total. Averaging 21.5 points over his last 10 games, there is excitement seeing whether he could crack the 20-point barrier again tonight. The line is set at over 19.5 points, which many analysts seem confident he can reach.
The Jazz may field closer to their optimal collective lineup, yet it might not be sufficient to overcome the Raptors' recent run. Unfortunately for the Jazz, they have not been able to find their rhythm this season, leading them to experiment with rotations, which can yield unpredictable results.
The Raptors, fresh off their recent triumph over the 76ers, where they rested several players, come to this game with renewed energy. Their experience against the Jazz during their last matchup suggests familiarity with their opponent’s weaknesses. Given the constantly shifting dynamics of the roster and direct attempts at tanking between both teams, expectations for the match remain cloudy yet charged with anticipation.
With all this said, tonight’s game will be telling. Will the Raptors continue their surprising streak, or will the Jazz finally capitalize on their home advantage? One thing’s for sure—the game will undoubtedly provide intrigue, tension, and perhaps even hope for excited fans.