Lauri Markkanen trade rumours have been swirling for months now, with the Lakers and Warriors both reported to have some level of interest in him.
With some talented draft classes coming up, it made sense that the Jazz might look to move on from Markkanen amid their rebuild.
But a deal that ships Markkanen out of Utah appears to be increasingly unlikely, according to The Athletic’s Tony Jones.
“Lauri has really taken to Utah,” Jones said during a radio appearance 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 current deal expires after next season, but Jones predicts he’ll sign a new deal soon.
“I would expect him to sign on August 7th, or after August 6th,” Jones said.“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 won the Most Improved Player award in the 2022-23 season, averaged 23.2 points and 8.2 rebounds per game last season.
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