INJURY WATCH: Smart said he is remaining optimistic he can make an early return to action like he did last post-season following thumb surgery. But he said Tuesday was the first day he was able to walk without pain and that his focus for now is treatment.
KEEP AN EYE ON: Harden. The Jazz used a defence focused on making the left-handed superstar go to his right in Game 1. The tactic kept him from using his step-back 3-pointer as effectively as he normally does. If they use the same tactic in Game 2 look for Harden to continue driving to the paint and dishing off to teammates such as Eric Gordon and P.J. Tucker for corner 3s.
INJURY WATCH: Jazz forward Thabo Sefolosha is questionable with soreness in his left hip and Kyle Korver is probable because of a sore right knee. The Rockets don’t have injuries but hope centre Clint Capela will feel better after struggling during Game 1 while recovering from an upper respiratory infection.