Utah Jazz want to keep Lauri Markkanen, but there are “aggressive offers” from other NBA teams according to Adrian Wojnarowski.
Additionally, Wojnarowski disclosed that Utah Jazz had a strong interest in acquiring Mikal Bridges, who ultimately was traded to the New York Knicks.
Despite the significant interest in Markkanen, any potential deal to acquire him would need to be “a great, great deal.”
Such attention would be well justified, considering Markkanen’s outstanding season, where he averaged 23.2 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 2 assists per game with the Utah Jazz.
The 27-year-old Markkanen is set to enter the final year of his contract in 2024-25, and according to Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports, the Jazz are “expected to prioritize” signing him to an extension.
Markkanen was acquired by Utah as part of the blockbuster deal that sent guard Donovan Mitchell to the Cleveland Cavaliers. While Mitchell has thrived with the Cavaliers, Markkanen has also made a significant impact for the Jazz.
In his debut season with Utah, the 7-foot Finnish player earned his first All-Star selection, averaging 25.6 points, 8.6 rebounds, 3.0 three-pointers made, and 1.9 assists per game. He shot 49.9 percent from the field and 39.1 percent from beyond the arc, showcasing his versatility and scoring prowess.
Sportsbooks with best Odds: