Markkanen to extend his contract with Utah Jazz

Tony Jones of The Athletic disclosed on July 29 on ESPN 700 that Markkanen intends to sign a contract extension with Utah. Furthermore, if he does, it will preclude any possible move until the NBA Offseason of 2025.

Expect him to sign on August 7

On ESPN 700, Tony Jones said “I would expect him to sign on August 7, or after August 6. Lauri doesn’t want to be traded, I expect him to do it after August 6, so there’s no trade talk this year. I don’t even think him signing on August 6 is even an option. We’re almost 100% trending towards him signing on August 7.”

Jones also told ESPN700 that Markkanen loves the team ad wants to continue playing for them. He said “Lauri really has taken to Utah. His family has taken to Utah. Obviously, the Jazz can trade him between now and August 6, 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, and Lauri really recognizes that and appreciates that and he wants to be a part of the rebuild.”

It seems sense that Markkanen doesn’t want to leave Utah as he has established his footing there.

Jazz’s reason for extension 

The Jazz view Lauri as a 27-year-old player with a game that isn’t predicted on athleticism. They believe Lauri will continue to be similar to him in the future. 

While building through the draft is considered the best option, there are no guarantees that the Jazz will get the desired pick or that the players they pursue will perform as well as Markkanen. While there may be better young talent, there’s no guarantee the Jazz will find them.

Utah Jazz are focusing on developing their young talent and acquiring a potential draft pick next year, with Lauri signing on August 7. The team is expected to prioritize young players during the season.

With Markkanen, the Jazz are ahead of being bad but not good enough to make a playoff run. There is a compelling case to keep Markkanen or trade him, but it is uncertain if he will be a mainstay. The Jazz are not trading Markkanen, and whether this is the best move for the next several years remains uncertain. 

The Jazz’s current situation is a testament to their commitment to developing their young talent and aiming for the golden prospect.

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