In a surprising turn of events, the Utah Jazz squandered a significant lead, ultimately losing 123-119 to the New Orleans Pelicans despite having a 25-point advantage in the first half. The defeat leaves Utah at the bottom of the Western Conference, prompting speculation about resting star players Lauri Markkanen, John Collins, and Collin Sexton. However, several lesser-known players stepped up during the game, including rookie Isaiah Collier, who recorded a double-double with 20 points and 11 assists.

Other notable performances came from Kyle Filipowski and Svi Mykhailiuk, who contributed significantly, with Filipowski grabbing a career-high 17 rebounds. The match not only revealed the Jazz's potential but also highlighted the need for strategic management of player minutes as they navigate a difficult season. Meanwhile, the Atlanta Hawks' De'Andre Hunter and Detroit Pistons' Malik Beasley also made headlines with their performances, adding to the growing list of players to watch as the season progresses.

CJ McCollum shone brightly for the New Orleans Pelicans, scoring an impressive 45 points, including six crucial ones in overtime, to lead his team to a remarkable 123-119 victory over the Utah Jazz. This win marked the largest comeback in Pelicans' history, overcoming a formidable 25-point deficit. Despite missing key players Zion Williamson and Yves Missi due to non-COVID illnesses, the Pelicans showcased their resilience with a strong performance throughout the second half.

Dejounte Murray contributed 26 points and 11 assists, while Trey Murphy III added 24 points. In a game where Utah initially dominated, leading by as much as 22 points, the Pelicans executed a stunning 24-3 run to finally take the lead. Utah managed to hold the lead briefly again, but McCollum's clutch shooting late in the game forced overtime. Ultimately, Murphy's decisive three-pointer solidified the Pelicans' victory as they continue their push for a playoff spot.

The NBA DFS slate for January 17, 2025, features a promising 9-game lineup on FanDuel, allowing players to capitalize on valuable opportunities, particularly against a depleted Utah Jazz squad. With key injuries affecting several teams, the landscape for daily fantasy basketball is ripe for strategic plays, especially among higher-priced options and undervalued players.

LaMelo Ball stands out as a prime target against the Chicago Bulls, boasting a streak of impressive performances. Other notable recommendations include Trey Murphy III and Jalen Williams, who are expected to excel due to favorable matchups and recent form. Players like Mark Williams and Scottie Barnes are also highlighted as potential pivots for tournament play.

In a decisive 105-92 victory, the Utah Jazz showcased their depth against the Orlando Magic, led by Brice Sensabaugh's impressive 27 points and Collin Sexton's 20 points. Sensabaugh, efficient off the bench, completed 5 of 6 3-point attempts while also contributing to the team's offensive rhythm despite missing several starters.

The Jazz had a strong showing with Johnny Juzang, Kyle Filipowski, and Svi Mykhhailiuk each adding 12 points. Orlando's Jett Howard led his team with a career-best 21 points, but the squad struggled with their shooting, hitting only 36% from the field. With key players sidelined, Orlando's performance highlighted their depth challenge.

In a remarkable display of skill, Russell Westbrook etched his name in the NBA history books by achieving a triple-double without any turnovers while shooting a perfect 100% from both the field and the free-throw line during the Denver Nuggets' 132-121 victory over the Utah Jazz. Westbrook's impressive stat line included 16 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists, as he joined Domantas Sabonis as the only players to accomplish this feat.

Nikola Jokic also shined in the game, recording a triple-double of his own with 36 points, 22 rebounds, and 11 assists. Jamal Murray contributed significantly with 20 points and 10 assists, showcasing Denver's offensive depth. For the Jazz, Jordan Clarkson led the scoring with 24 points, while Collin Sexton added 22 points. Despite a strong first half, where Utah led 66-64 at halftime, the Nuggets surged ahead in the third quarter, outscoring the Jazz 34-23.

Both teams faced challenges, with Denver missing Aaron Gordon due to a calf strain and Utah without John Collins for the fourth consecutive game due to a hip bruise. The Nuggets struggled during Jokic's absence on the court, but he made an immediate impact upon returning in the fourth quarter, hitting a three-pointer and assisting Westbrook for a dunk.

Utah, fielding four rookies during a crucial stretch, managed to narrow the gap to 109-107, but they ultimately faltered. The Jazz, notorious for committing turnovers, suffered 13 turnovers in the second half, which proved costly, allowing Denver to capitalize with 14 points off those mistakes. Looking ahead, the Jazz will face the New York Knicks, while the Nuggets will host the Atlanta Hawks.