Utah Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen is sitting out the early portion of the preseason with a left-wrist contusion sustained during Finland’s run to the EuroBasket semifinals last month. Head coach Will Hardy described the injury as “maintenance” and said the club has no long-term concerns.
According to the Salt Lake Tribune, Markkanen continues to work out, is dribbling with both hands, and is not wearing any protective gear on the wrist. The 2023 All-Star expects to be ready for opening night but is unsure how much he will play in Utah’s remaining preseason games on Friday, Monday and next Thursday.
“I’ve been doing rehab every day and feeling better,” Markkanen said.
The injury update arrives amid renewed trade speculation. Sports Illustrated’s Chris Mannix recently labeled Markkanen the player most often mentioned by league sources ahead of this season’s trade deadline, while The Ringer’s Zach Lowe said he doubts the Finnish forward will still be with the Jazz a year from now.
New president of basketball operations Austin Ainge pushed back on that prediction, calling Markkanen “really good” and a potential cornerstone of Utah’s future. Even so, Ainge acknowledged that no player is completely off-limits if the right offer emerges.
Markkanen was unable to be moved last season after signing a renegotiation-and-extension deal in August 2024, but he is again trade-eligible. The 7-footer has reiterated his preference to stay in Utah while recognizing that trade rumors are part of NBA life.
League executives who have contacted the Jazz in the past were reportedly asked for multiple draft picks and quality young players in return for the 28-year-old, but Utah has yet to receive an offer it finds compelling.
Source: Hoops Rumors
