The Utah Jazz were at a crossroads this NBA offseason. After naming Danny Ainge President of Basketball Operations, the team went into a full-blown rebuild. Trading away perennial All-Stars Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert, the team was looking for a fresh start. But thanks to some shrewd moves and the brilliance of head coach Will Hardy, the team was immediately competitive.
Going into the 2024-25 season, with a core led by Lauri Markkanen, the team had to take a step. Either go all-in or dive further into the rebuild with additional draft assets. Most rumors suggested that the Jazz were looking at the former, with Utah emerging as a viable candidate for Mikal Bridges.
However, the blockbuster New York trade put those plans on hold. Now, the team could pivot in the other direction, and the Finland native’s first name off the board could be.
Which teams would join the Lauri Markkanen sweepstakes?
An intriguing trade prospect for any team in, or on the brink of, contention, the main thing to consider is what Utah gets back in a potential trade. The Los Angeles Lakers have already mentioned their interest, especially by superstar LeBron James and new head coach JJ Reddick.
On the Mind the Game podcast, the two waxed lyrical about what a splendid player the one-time All-Star is. Now, as a player and coach combo, the two could look for ways to get him on the team. With a load of assets, both player and draft, compensation-wise, Los Angeles could be a viable candidate.
But if the chips do fall, a few other teams could call the Jazz to inquire. Chief among them would be the Golden State Warriors. Possessing a few intriguing pieces and all of their draft stock, Golden State could pivot to Utah after the Paul George dream fell apart, given his departure to the Philadelphia 76ers.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Lauri Markkanen, Utah Jazz Updates
Another team with an overabundance of quality youngsters and a ton of draft capital is the Memphis Grizzlies. A returning Ja Morant should give them a jolt in the arm, but a trade to incorporate Markkanen would immediately place them in championship contention.
The contract extension factor
However, the biggest concern for any trades involving Markkanen is contract-related. At essentially $18 million, the 2023 Most Improved Player is a steal for any team, especially for a contender, given his production. However, entering the final year of his contract, the seven-footer will fetch a hefty price tag going forward.
Any team making the trade would need to ensure that it can offer him that extension and/or cash in for one hurrah season before retooling again. Moreover, Lauri struggled in both Chicago and with the Cleveland Cavaliers before exploding in Utah.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Lauri Markkanen, Utah Jazz Updates
Teams should ponder whether his come-up is a product of Will Hardy’s genius or his own growth before going all in on him.
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