Lauri Markkanen has been one of the hottest assets on the trade market. He is coming off a campaign in which he averaged 23.2 points, 8.2 total rebounds per game, and a true shooting percentage of 63.1 percent. Three Western Conference teams are showing strong interest in the Utah Jazz All-Star. The San Antonio Spurs, Golden State Warriors, and Sacramento Kings are interested in interviewing GM, Danny Ainge. Markkanen is a stick-and-shoot player who would fit well in many systems around the league as a top star. On top of that, he has one year left on his current contract and will be owed just over $18 million. Even if Markkanen is just a one-year rental, he can still benefit the right team in the right place.
Warriors, Spurs, and Kings Eyeing Lauri Markkanen
What It Could Cost to Find a Utah Jazz Star
What may prevent teams from trading an All-Star at once is dealing with Danny Ainge. Ainge has a reputation as one of the best GMs in the league when it comes to trades that benefit him in the long run. He was the architect of the 2008 Boston Celtics championship team with Paul Pierce, Ray Allen, and Kevin Garnett. Not to mention, Ainge is the champion of teams running for picks in the upcoming draft. Just ask the Brooklyn Nets.
Considering that Mikal Bridges was recently acquired with five picks in the upcoming draft, expect a high asking price for Markkanen. Given Danny Ainge's reputation, the Jazz will likely ask for significant compensation that could cripple the team's future. Regardless, that doesn't stop teams from showing interest in what could be a perfect third star for a team looking to strengthen its roster (like the Sacramento Kings). Overall, Lauri Markkanen is one of the most underrated players in the league and there is a reason there is a healthy market for him.
Lauri Markkanen's Potential Eligibility Per Team
The Golden State Warriors are looking to quickly surround Steph Curry with talent after losing Klay Thompson and Chris Paul. Markkanen, a 37.5 percent three-point shooter, would fit well into Steve Kerr's scheme. As for Spurs, they got Chris Paul who will be a good player for Victor Wembanyama. Lauri Markkanen would be a good option for Paul and Wembanyama.
As for the Kings, they are looking to add some offensive firepower. Mainly to help their two stars of Domantas Sabonis and De'Aaron Fox. They've shown a lot of interest in Brandon Ingram, but Markkanen would be a perfect fit in the frontcourt with Sabonis. Especially from a space perspective. Given all this, Lauri Markkanen will be a good fit for all three teams. The question is whether they are willing to play football with GM Jazz, Danny Ainge.
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