RotoWire – Jason Shebilske

Jazz Gaming further solidified their playoff standing Tuesday with a sweep over struggling Pistons GT.

Pistons GT created numerous second-chance opportunities during the first quarter of Game 1 by bringing in seven rebounds, but they also committed four turnovers. Despite the Pistons’ efficiency on the boards, Jazz Gaming looked like the better team throughout the first quarter. They were efficient from 3-point range by converting 3-of-4 attempts over the first six minutes, and that helped contribute to a 22-15 lead at the end of the frame. The Jazz were consistent in the second quarter of the game, tallying 22 points once again while forcing two more turnovers and going 2-for-3 from beyond the arc to take a 44-26 lead into the second half.

The Pistons were efficient during the third quarter as they shot 9-for-12 from the field to put up 20 points in the frame, but the Jazz remained productive by adding another 21 points as they led 65-46 heading into the final quarter. Even during a blowout game, the Jazz remained remarkably consistent in the fourth quarter by adding 22 more points to pick up the 87-63 win in the first game. For Jazz Gaming, Splashy finished with a game-high 33 points as he went 5-for-7 on his three-pointers while adding seven assists. Ria went 5-for-5 from the floor to pick up a 13-point, 12-rebound double-double, while Lotty (23 points, four assists) and Lord Beezus (15 points, five rebounds, four assists) also had impressive performances. Ramo led Pistons GT with 26 points and eight assists but also committed eight of the team’s 11 turnovers.

Pistons GT made much more of a run over the start of Game 2. Although the team didn’t attempt any three-pointers during the first quarter, the team forced four turnovers and went 9-for-12 from the floor to take an 18-15 lead into the second quarter. However, the Jazz were far more productive in the second quarter than they were in the first, converting on 3-of-5 three-point attempts to take the lead late in the first half. The Pistons converted on just one shot from beyond the arc during the first half, and Jazz Gaming had a 34-31 lead at halftime.

The teams were fairly even during the third quarter, allowing Pistons GT to remain within striking distance. Neither team was particularly efficient on their field-goal attempts, but the Jazz maintained a slight edge by continuing to convert from long range. Still, Jazz Gaming carried just a four-point lead into the final frame with a score of 53-49. The Pistons attempted far more 3-pointers in the final quarter but went just 6-for-14 over the game as the Jazz pulled away and earned the sweep with a 76-66 win. Splashy was a bit of a one-trick pony during the second game but finished with 37 points. Yeah I compete added 17 points for Jazz Gaming, while Ria finished with four points, 15 rebounds and eight assists. Ramo was more productive for Pistons GT the second time around with 33 points and six assists. LYKaPRO had 10 points and Charger x 704 contributed six points and 10 rebounds, but the team was unable to get enough production as a team to force a third game.

Jazz Gaming (12-2) will attempt to cement their playoff standing with a quick turnaround against T-Wolves Gaming on Wednesday. Pistons GT (3-12) will have a night off before facing Gen.G Tigers to finish the regular season.