TITLE: Jazz signal intent to build around Lauri Markkanen, dampening trade speculation
SLUG: jazz-plan-to-build-around-lauri-markkanen
CONTENT:
The Utah Jazz are giving every indication they intend to keep All-Star forward Lauri Markkanen and seek roster help rather than putting him on the trade market, according to multiple league sources.
Veteran insider Marc Stein reported that several front offices now believe Utah’s focus for this trade season is to reinforce the lineup around Markkanen instead of entertaining offers for him.
The 26-year-old is delivering another standout campaign, averaging 28.5 points and 6.2 rebounds while shooting 46.8 percent from the field, 36 percent from three-point range and 90 percent at the free-throw line. His scoring average ranks 12th in the NBA.
This is the first season of a four-year, $195 million renegotiate-and-extend contract the 7-footer signed last summer. Despite the Jazz’s 6-13 start, league sources told DallasHoopsJournal that Markkanen has never considered asking for a trade. On media day he said he ignores rumors and will “adjust if something happens.”
Markkanen, who previously played for the Bulls and Cavaliers, owns career averages of 18.6 points and 7.1 rebounds.
For now, the prevailing view among rival executives is that Utah’s front office plans to explore moves to surround its leading scorer with additional talent rather than listen to proposals for him.
Source: Hoops Wire
