Lauri Markkanen Remains Focal Point as Jazz Weigh Roster-Upgrading Deals
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Rival front offices increasingly believe the Utah Jazz would rather add talent around Lauri Markkanen than move the 28-year-old forward, according to Marc Stein. While Utah is motivated to finish near the bottom in 2025/26 to keep its top-eight-protected first-round pick from conveying to Oklahoma City, executives told Stein the club’s priority is a quicker return to contention.
Sources told Stein that determining the intentions of newly installed basketball operations chief Austin Ainge has been difficult, yet most teams now expect Utah to pursue trades that fortify its core. Markkanen, under contract through 2028/29 and averaging a career-best 27.9 points this season, has periodically surfaced in trade speculation. Ainge did not rule out that scenario in October, but opposing executives sense Utah is leaning toward retaining its leading scorer.
Keyonte George’s Breakout Continues
After being held scoreless Sunday against Houston while battling an illness, third-year guard Keyonte George erupted for 28 points, eight assists and four rebounds in Monday’s rematch. Through 19 games, the 23-year-old is producing 22.5 points, 6.8 assists and 3.9 rebounds on .440/.325/.898 shooting in 33.9 minutes.
George told Andscape’s Marc J. Spears that a frank exit interview with head coach Will Hardy after last season reshaped his approach. “My exit interview was brutal. Will shot it to me straight,” George said, noting nightly phone calls and expanded on-court responsibilities have grown their relationship “to a whole other level.”
Thunder Guard Ajay Mitchell Impresses in Year Two
Second-round pick Ajay Mitchell earned unexpected rotation minutes on a two-way contract last season before a toe injury sidelined him. Promoted to a standard deal in February and re-signed on a multiyear pact over the summer, the Belgian guard has markedly improved at both ends. “His feel for the game jumps out right away,” reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander told The Oklahoman, praising Mitchell’s instincts and adaptability.
Finch Finds Winning Lineup Late vs. Spurs
Trailing by four entering the fourth quarter Sunday, Minnesota Timberwolves coach Chris Finch deployed Mike Conley, Donte DiVincenzo, Jaden McDaniels, Julius Randle and Naz Reid—a unit that had logged just 15 minutes all season. The group overwhelmed San Antonio during a six-minute span, turning the deficit into a victory. Reid scored eight of his 15 points in the period, and Minnesota outscored the Spurs by 20 with him on the floor. “We’re a hard team to beat when we’re all involved,” Reid said.
Source: Hoops Rumors
