The Utah Jazz, known for tanking, are facing a dilemma due to Lauri Markkanen’s outstanding performance. After years of trading away veterans to intentionally lose, Markkanen is averaging over 30 points per game, making it hard for the Jazz to secure a desired draft pick. The team’s current trajectory could lead them to fall outside key lottery positions, particularly concerning a top-eight protected pick owed to the Oklahoma City Thunder. With Markkanen’s growing impact, Utah finds itself at a crossroads: keep him for potential future success or trade him to maintain their tanking strategy.
By the Numbers
- Lauri Markkanen is averaging over 30 points per game this season.
- He has scored 173 points in Utah’s five wins, more than all but one teammate.
Yes, But
The Jazz’s plan to tank might backfire due to Markkanen’s performance, leading to a potential top draft pick slipping away. Additionally, Markkanen’s success complicates their roster strategy, forcing them to reconsider their long-term plans.
State of Play
- The Jazz currently have five wins, risking a lower draft pick if they continue to perform well.
- They lack veterans to trade, making it harder to return to a defensive strategy for losing games.
What’s Next
As the season progresses, the Jazz may explore options to limit Markkanen’s playing time to protect their draft position, possibly leading to rumors of trades. However, given the current market, an actual trade appears unlikely unless a significant offer emerges.
Bottom Line
The Jazz must navigate their strategy carefully as they balance Markkanen’s stellar play and their future ambitions. Holding onto him could mean risking their draft plans, while trading him would require finding the right value amidst competing priorities.
