Utah Jazz vs Portland Trail Blazers – Preview & Prediction (Feb. 12, 2026)
Game preview
The Jazz have been building with an eye toward the future, focusing on developing younger players after making moves near the trade deadline. They surprised many with a strong start to the season, hit a rough patch, and now look steadier again. Over their last five games they’ve dropped two tight contests to Orlando and Atlanta but responded well with road and home wins, most recently a dominant 121-93 victory over Sacramento. That game was essentially decided early — Utah opened up a big lead in the first quarter and kept rolling, with Jaren Jackson leading the way for the team and Lauri Markkanen chipping in on the boards.
Portland looked like they were through their worst stretch and had picked up momentum, but injuries have taken a toll and the club hit a skid during a tough stretch of games. They’ve steadied somewhat, winning three of four at one point, and currently sit in the play-in range in the West. In their most recent matchup, however, they were handled by Minnesota, losing 133-109 as the Timberwolves pulled away by halftime and extended the lead in the third quarter. Jrue Holiday was one bright spot for Portland in that outing.
Form, head-to-head and availability
Head-to-head early this season favored Portland, who took the first two meetings between the clubs. Both teams have shown more offensive consistency than defensive stability lately, so this one could turn into a run-and-gun affair if neither defense locks in.
Injury notes: Utah is missing Keyonte George, Walker Kessler and EJ Harkless. Portland will be without Matisse Thybulle, Shaedon Sharpe, Kris Murray and Damian Lillard for this game.
Prediction
Given how both teams have been scoring and how porous their defenses have been at times, this matchup looks likely to be high scoring. The team that can control tempo and impose its offensive rhythm should have the edge. Expect a fast pace and lots of possessions.
Tip-off: Thursday, 9:00 p.m. EST, February 12, 2026
Prediction: Over 236.5 points
Odds: 1.79 | Suggested stake: 1 unit
Quick take: Back the over if you expect both teams to keep attacking and score in transition. If you’re wagering, keep an eye on late injury updates and rotation news before lock.
