Lauri Markkanen commerce rumours have been swirling for months now, with the Lakers and Warriors each reported to have some degree of curiosity in him.
With some proficient draft courses arising, it made sense that the Jazz would possibly look to maneuver on from Markkanen amid their rebuild.
However a deal that ships Markkanen out of Utah seems to be more and more unlikely, in keeping with The Athletic’s Tony Jones.
“Lauri has actually taken to Utah,” Jones mentioned throughout a radio look on ESPN 700 in Salt Lake Metropolis. “His household has taken to Utah. Clearly the Jazz can commerce him between now and August sixth, and Lauri is aware of that, however Lauri has cast a extremely shut relationship with Will Hardy. And Will Hardy has actually discovered a technique to unlock his profession in a way that hasn’t been achieved earlier than. Lauri actually acknowledges that, understands that, and appreciates that. He needs to be part of the rebuild.”
Markkanen’s present deal expires after subsequent season, however Jones predicts he’ll signal a brand new deal quickly.
“I might anticipate him to signal on August seventh, or after August sixth,” Jones mentioned.“Lauri doesn’t wish to be traded, so if he indicators the renegotiation and extension, which I anticipate him to do, I anticipate him to do it after August sixth so there’s no commerce speak this 12 months.”
Markkanen, who received the Most Improved Participant award within the 2022-23 season, averaged 23.2 factors and eight.2 rebounds per recreation final season.
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