Jazz Reaches a New Low in Losing to the Rockets

The Houston Rockets held Utah to its lowest point total in the franchise’s history in beating the Jazz, 75-72, Monday night at Salt Lake City on Charles Barkley’s go-ahead dunk with 15.8 seconds left.

The Jazz broke its record of 74 points, set in 1974--when the team was based in New Orleans.

Karl Malone led Utah with 16 points, but was held without a field goal in the fourth quarter.

Barkley, who had 33 rebounds Saturday in Phoenix, had 20 rebounds and nine points.

Hakeem Olajuwon scored 23 for the Rockets.

Atlanta 94, Portland 76--Mookie Blaylock scored 22 points, and Steve Smith added 19 at Portland where the Hawks won for the first time this season and spoiled the Trail Blazers’ home opener.

Portland turned the ball over 28 times, 24 in the first three quarters. Atlanta turned those turnovers into 29 points.

The Trail Blazers have 71 turnovers in their first three games.

“When you turn the ball over 28 times against a poor team, you’d be in trouble,” Portland Coach P.J. Carlesimo said. “Against a good team, you’ve got no chance.”

Especially when you don’t score many points of your own. The Trail Blazers’ total of 76 was only four above the all-time franchise low.