Utah Jazz open strong as Denver lose Spencer Jones to injury

The Utah Jazz launched what many view as a new chapter for the franchise with a convincing 109–97 win over the Denver Nuggets in the 2026‑27 preseason opener in Boulder. Lauri Markkanen set the tone with 17 points in just 14 minutes, supported by solid contributions from Keyonte George, Jaren Jackson Jr., Blake Hinson and rookie Ace Bailey. Second overall pick Darryn Peterson debuted as a starter, finishing with three points and six rebounds, while Jusuf Nurkic anchored the frontcourt. Denver, without Jamal Murray, struggled to keep pace, relying on Julian Strawther’s 14 points off the bench and Aaron Gordon’s 12.

The Nuggets’ night worsened with news that forward Spencer Jones suffered a left hamstring injury revealed by an MRI over the weekend. Listed day‑to‑day, he may miss the entire preseason as Denver proceed cautiously. Coach David Adelman stressed the priority is having Jones ready for the October 22 opener against Oklahoma City.