John Stockton scored eight of his team-high 22 points in the final 4:40 as Utah held off struggling Charlotte.
Karl Malone broke an 82-82 tie with two free throws with 1:22 left and Jeff Hornacek hit a three-pointer with 49.4 seconds remaining to put the Jazz ahead 87-82.
Eddie Jones, who led all scorers with 31 points, hit a three-pointer with 33.2 seconds remaining and the Hornets got the ball back with 7.7 seconds left. But Jones was called for an offensive foul on the inbound play and Charlotte lost its final chance to tie.
Stockton, who also recorded seven assists, sank two free throws to seal the win. Malone added 19 points and 13 rebounds and Hornacek and Bryon Russell had 13 points apiece for the Jazz, who have won three straight.
Baron Davis had 13 points for the Hornets, losers in three straight at home, followed by Elden Campbell with 12 points and 11 rebounds.
Malone scored eight points during Utah’s 16-4 surge to open the third quarter and the Jazz held a 61-51 lead with 5:32 left in the period.
Jones scored the final five points of the quarter and narrowed the Jazz’ advantage to 64-60 entering the final period.
