Utah Jazz vs San Antonio Spurs 13 October 2026 Prediction

San Antonio would be the clear favorite in a regular-season meeting, but the preseason results are less decisive. Utah is 1-1, while San Antonio is 0-2. Their preseason meeting last year went to overtime and ended 134-130. Another close game is possible.

Utah's Season Outlook Remains Unclear

After several seasons of rebuilding, Utah has added enough talent to consider a playoff push, though its prospects remain uncertain. Markkanen, Jackson Jr., and the improving George and Collier give the Jazz a stronger roster. Utah split two preseason games against Denver, winning one 109-97. In the second meeting, rookie Peterson scored 23 points. The No. 2 overall pick is making an early case for a significant role.

Utah Jazz Predicted Lineup: George, Peterson, Bailey, Markkanen, Jackson Jr.

Out: Nurkic (injury)

Manager: Will Hardy

San Antonio Has Struggled Late in Both Games

San Antonio lost to Atlanta 123-116 and Phoenix 102-98, struggling in the fourth quarter both times. Defensive lapses and missed open shots contributed to the losses. The Spurs are still finding their rhythm. They reached last season's NBA Finals, where they lost to New York 4-1. With the regular season approaching, the team's leaders are managing their workload while younger players get opportunities. Second-year guard Harper scored 15 and 16 points in the two games.

San Antonio Spurs Predicted Lineup: Harper, Castle, Vassell, Harris, Wembanyama

Out: Quaintance (injury)

Manager: Mitch Johnson

San Antonio Has the Head-to-Head Edge

The Spurs have won four of their five meetings with the Jazz over the past two seasons.

Utah Jazz vs San Antonio Spurs Prediction: San Antonio Spurs Handicap -3.5

Main pick: Utah can score at a quick pace, but its defense remains a concern. The Jazz finished last season with the league's worst defense. San Antonio has lost both preseason games, though it was competitive in each. With the regular season approaching, its leading players may see more minutes. The pick is San Antonio Spurs -3.5.

Total points pick: Utah plays fast and often shoots early in possessions. San Antonio has several reliable scorers. The teams combined for 264 points in last year's preseason meeting. The pick is over 236.5 total points.