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 gifted draft lessons 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, according to 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 solid a very shut relationship with Will Hardy. And Will Hardy has actually discovered a solution to unlock his profession in a fashion that hasn’t been completed 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 count on him to signal on August seventh, or after August sixth,” Jones mentioned.“Lauri doesn’t need to be traded, so if he indicators the renegotiation and extension, which I count on him to do, I count on him to do it after August sixth so there’s no commerce discuss this yr.”
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.
READ MORE: How Tensions Reached Breaking Point Between Zach LaVine and Chicago Bulls
