Jazz’s Biggest Winners and Losers After Loss to Lakers, as Luka Doncic Takes Charge

George Provides a Bright Spot

Keyonte George scored 24 points and added nine rebounds and 10 assists, nearly recording a triple-double as he faced Doncic’s big night. His six turnovers, a team high, were a notable concern.

George is averaging 4.0 turnovers per game, an issue Utah will need to address if it is to depend on him as its main playmaker. Still, his performance showed the potential of the player the Jazz recently paid $150 million to retain as a franchise cornerstone.

Peterson Shows Defensive Promise

The Jazz’s No. 2 pick took 13 shots but scored eight points, going 0-for-4 from three-point range. He also committed five fouls. Peterson had one block and a team-high three steals, offering some positive signs on defense. More consistent offense alongside that defensive work could help him settle into Utah’s lineup.

Bailey Makes His Starting Chance Count

Ace Bailey started for a second straight game and made the most of the opportunity. He made eight of 11 field-goal attempts and grabbed a team-high 12 rebounds.

Six of Bailey’s rebounds came on offense, giving Utah extra help on the glass while the team struggles with frontcourt size. Continued work on both ends could strengthen his place in the Jazz’s plans for the future.

Mykhailiuk Has a Difficult Night

Veteran wing Svi Mykhailiuk played 14 minutes off the bench but scored only two points on one-for-four shooting. His minus-16 plus-minus was the lowest on the Jazz. Keyonte George was next at minus-12. Josh Okogie and Josh Green could challenge Mykhailiuk for playing time, and the article notes that both offer more defensive upside.