With playoffs a fading dream, Jazz look to continue development

Zoom in: The team has fully committed to rebuilding and playing its young guys. A number of their key players are still finding their footing in the league, so getting in-game experience has been more important than stacking wins, at least for now.

Reality check: Some of the wins have been impressive:

• An early season victory over the New York Knicks, who are third in the East at 36-18;
• A 131-128 win at home over the Golden State Warriors;
• And a 131-119 win against Luka Doncic, LeBron James and the other Lakers.

Yes, but: There hasn't been much to celebrate elsewhere as injuries have also taken a toll.

• Out of 54 games played, star forward Lauri Markkanen has only suited up for 41, rising star Keyonte George for 44, former sixth man of the year Jordan Clarkson for just 30 and 7-footer Walker Kessler for 42.
• It's hard to build chemistry and success when key players are missing chunks of time.

What's next: The second half of the Jazz's season is one of streaks. They're back in action Friday night at the Delta Center against the West-leading Oklahoma City Thunder to continue a nine-game home stand.

• Then Utah hits the road for a five-game stretch. The Jazz have a six-game home stand starting in mid-March before hitting the road for another five.

What we're watching: It would take nothing short of a miracle for Utah to climb into the Play-In Tournament but stringing together some wins and getting the young core more time together will go a long way for next season.