Utah's next opportunity to be favored comes against the Portland Trail Blazers on December 6. This matchup is seen as a potential turning point for the Jazz, who are looking to improve their standing in a challenging early season schedule.

The Portland Trail Blazers are facing a critical juncture in their rebuild after securing two surprising victories against the Timberwolves, improving their record to 5-8. Despite this unexpected success, they should prioritize tanking to enhance their chances of landing a top-3 pick in the highly anticipated 2025 NBA Draft, which features standout prospects like Cooper Flagg, Ace Bailey, and Dylan Harper. Trading veterans such as Jerami Grant and Anfernee Simons could be a strategic move to achieve this goal. The team showcased its potential with impressive performances from rookie Donovan Clingan and Shaedon Sharpe, both of whom posted career-highs in their recent games. While the Blazers have demonstrated competitiveness, they must focus on long-term development rather than short-term wins.

Flipping veterans like Robert Williams III may be a strategic move for the Trail Blazers as they aim to improve their chances of securing a top-3 pick in the upcoming draft. His potential trade could help the team focus on their long-term rebuilding efforts, especially with a stacked draft class on the horizon.

Flipping veterans like Matisse Thybulle could be a strategic move for Portland as they aim to improve their chances of securing a top draft pick. His potential trade could help the team focus on a long-term rebuild, especially with a promising draft class on the horizon.

Flipping Anfernee Simons could be a strategic move for the Trail Blazers as they aim to improve their chances of securing a top draft pick. While the team has shown some competitive spirit, the focus should shift towards long-term rebuilding rather than short-term successes, making Simons a potential trade candidate in their efforts to tank effectively this season.