Basketball

Why Lauri Markkanen Doesn’t Want Trade to Lakers or Warriors

Lauri Markkanen commerce rumours have been swirling for months now, with the Lakers and Warriors each reported to have some stage of curiosity in him.

With some gifted draft lessons developing, it made sense that the Jazz would possibly look to transfer on from Markkanen amid their rebuild.

But a deal that ships Markkanen out of Utah seems to be more and more unlikely, according to The Athletic’s Tony Jones.

“Lauri has really taken to Utah,” Jones mentioned throughout a radio look on ESPN 700 in Salt Lake City. “His family has taken to Utah. Obviously the Jazz can trade him between now and August 6th, and Lauri knows that, but Lauri has forged a really close relationship with Will Hardy. And Will Hardy has really found a way to unlock his career in a manner that hasn’t been accomplished before. Lauri really recognizes that, understands that, and appreciates that. He wants to be a part of the rebuild.”

Markkanen’s present deal expires after subsequent season, however Jones predicts he’ll signal a brand new deal quickly.

“I would expect him to sign on August 7th, or after August 6th,” Jones mentioned.“Lauri doesn’t want to be traded, so if he signs the renegotiation and extension, which I expect him to do, I expect him to do it after August 6th so there’s no trade talk this year.”

Markkanen, who received the Most Improved Player award within the 2022-23 season, averaged 23.2 factors and eight.2 rebounds per sport final season.

READ MORE: How Tensions Reached Breaking Point Between Zach LaVine and Chicago Bulls


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