Utah Jazz vs Toronto Raptors Prediction | 02.01.26

Utah Jazz vs Toronto Raptors Prediction, Odds & NBA Picks | 01-02-2026

The regular season heats up as the Utah Jazz (15-34) travel to Scotiabank Arena in Toronto to face the Toronto Raptors (29-21) on January 2nd, 2026, at 6:00 PM EST. This matchup pits a struggling Jazz squad, battling significant injury woes, against a Raptors team that has established itself as a formidable force in the Eastern Conference.

Utah Jazz vs Toronto Raptors Matchup Preview

Utah Jazz Key Stats & Trends

The Utah Jazz enter this contest with a dismal 15-34 record, struggling to find consistency amidst a challenging season. Their offense is largely spearheaded by the prolific scoring of Lauri Markkanen, who averages an impressive 27.4 points per game, complemented by 7.0 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 1.0 steals, and 0.5 blocks. His all-around impact is undeniable, but he’s often a lone wolf. Jusuf Nurkic, when healthy, has been a force on the boards, leading the team with 10.1 rebounds per game. Rookie point guard Isaiah Collier has shown promise as a playmaker, dishing out 6.7 assists per game. However, the team’s overall offensive efficiency and defensive consistency have been major concerns, exacerbated by a growing list of injuries.

Injury Report Utah Jazz

• Kevin Love (Day-to-day): Love (illness) is listed as probable for Sunday’s game against Toronto.
• Jusuf Nurkic (Day-to-day): Nurkic (illness) has been upgraded to probable for Sunday’s game against the Raptors.
• Keyonte George (Out): George (ankle) has been ruled out for Sunday’s game against the Raptors.
• Georges Niang (Out): Niang (foot) has been ruled out for Sunday’s game against Toronto.
• Elijah Harkless (Out): Harkless (hamstring) is expected to miss about two more weeks.
• Walker Kessler (Out): Kessler will undergo left shoulder surgery and will miss the remainder of the 2025-26 season.

Toronto Raptors Key Stats & Trends

The Toronto Raptors boast a strong 29-21 record, showcasing their competitive edge this season. Their offense is powered by Brandon Ingram, who leads the team with 21.9 points per game, providing consistent scoring. The versatile Scottie Barnes is the team’s engine, averaging an impressive 19.4 points, 8.3 rebounds, 5.6 assists, 1.3 steals, and 1.5 blocks per game, making him a true two-way star. Immanuel Quickley orchestrates the offense effectively, contributing 6.1 assists per game. The Raptors play with high intensity, particularly on the defensive end, and leverage their athleticism and depth to wear down opponents, especially at home.

Injury Report Toronto Raptors

• Jakob Poeltl (Out): Poeltl returned to Toronto to receive targeted pain relief treatment for his back injury and does not have an established timeline of return.
• Chucky Hepburn (Out): Hepburn produced 17 points, 15 assists, two rebounds and three steals in 35 minutes of Wednesday’s 115-108 G League win over the Delaware Blue Coats.

Utah Jazz vs Toronto Raptors Prediction & Best Bet

Given the stark contrast in team records and, more critically, the extensive injury report for the Jazz, the Toronto Raptors are heavily favored in this matchup. Utah will be without key contributors like Keyonte George and Georges Niang, and most significantly, Walker Kessler is out for the season, leaving a massive void in their interior defense and rebounding. While Nurkic and Love are probable, their recent illnesses could impact their effectiveness. The Raptors, despite Jakob Poeltl’s absence, still possess a strong core led by the dynamic Scottie Barnes and the scoring punch of Brandon Ingram. Playing at home, Toronto’s superior depth, offensive firepower, and defensive intensity should overwhelm the short-handed Jazz.

Prediction: Toronto Raptors -10.5 (Spread)

The total points line is set at 234.5. The Jazz, even with their injuries, have Markkanen who can put up points, and if Nurkic plays, their offensive rebounding could generate second-chance opportunities. The Raptors’ offense, featuring Ingram, Barnes, and Quickley, is potent, and Poeltl’s absence might slightly soften their interior defense, potentially leading to more free-flowing scoring. The Jazz’s defense, especially without Kessler, will struggle to contain Toronto. We anticipate a higher-scoring affair.

Over/Under Pick: Over 234.5