Jazz host surprising Clippers

After tonight’s contest, Utah will play five games on the road in seven days. The Jazz are scheduled to visit the Phoenix Suns, Boston Celtics, New York Knicks, Philadelphia 76ers and the Toronto Raptors.

The Jazz found themselves on the wrong end of a 98-88 decision against the Portland Trail Blazers on Sunday at the Rose Garden. Raja Bell tallied 21 points for the Jazz, who have dropped seven of eight. Matt Harpring added 19 points and Carlos Arroyo had 12 points and 12 assists for Utah, which rallied from an 11-point third-quarter deficit only to lose for just third time in four outings to Portland.

Harpring has scored in double-digits in eight straight games. He is averaging 16.9 points, six rebounds and two assists in that span.

Utah is 5-6 as the host this season.

The Clippers attempt to halt a two-game losing streak tonight. On Monday, Gary Payton scored on a driving layup with 35 seconds remaining in double overtime to break a tie after the Boston Celtics rallied from a 12-point fourth quarter deficit to post a thrilling 134-127 victory over the Clippers at the Staples Center.

Corey Maggette had a career-high 38 points for the Clippers, who fell for the second straight time and have dropped three of their last four. Elton Brand racked up 24 points and 18 rebounds, while Bobby Simmons came through with 22 points in defeat.

LA is 4-3 on the road this season.

In 2003-04, the Jazz won three of the four contests with the Clippers. Overall, Utah has won two straight and five of the last six meetings in this series. The Clippers have lost three straight and 29 of their last 30 games at Utah.