Kessler was outstanding in Utah’s 131-119 win over the Lakers, scoring 18 points with eight rebounds, two steals and a season-high six blocks. According to StatMuse, his performance made him the first NBA player this season to record five or more blocks without missing a single field goal.

Portland looks to stop its three-game road losing streak with a win against Utah. Monday's matchup is the first this season for the squads.

After a rough showing on Monday night vs. the Los Angeles Lakers, the Utah Jazz got back on track during Wednesday's rematch in the Delta Center as they avoided their season series sweep against LA in a win, 131-119, reaching their 13th victory of the year.

The Rockets' young core is the envy of the NBA — but the Jazz's youth outplayed them on this night. What happened?

Portland Trail Blazers guard Shaedon Sharpe, right, drives to the hoop against Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler, left, during the first half of an NBA basketball game Thursday, Dec. 26, 2024, in Portland, Ore. (AP Photo/Howard Lao) AP AP

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Markkanen has had a down season for the tanking Jazz after signing a five-year, $238 million contract this summer. The 27-year-old has averaged 19.3 points, 6.1 rebounds and 1.6 assists on 42.5 percent shooting from the field and 34.7 percent from three. Utah is 9-34 in games he has played.

Alas, Keyonte George — who struggled to a 6-of-22 night — made an ill-fate drive with 15 seconds left instead of looking for a 3-pointer, which helped seal Utah's fate. But George did try his darndest to bring the Jazz back.

The Rockets' road troubles resumed after the All-Star break with a sixth loss in a row away from home. The Utah Jazz got the better of Houston this time.

SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Keyonte George scored 30 points and Lauri Markkanen added 23 points and 10 rebounds to rally the Utah Jazz to a 124-115 victory over the Houston Rockets on Saturday night. Walker Kessler had 11 points and 17 rebounds, and Isaiah Collier added 12 points and 10 assists to help Utah snap a two-game skid.