On the latest episode of The Bill Simmons Podcast, The Ringer’s Bill Simmons suggests that Utah Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen is within the constellation of stars that could be on the move during the summer solstice.
While name-dropping a list of luminaries that includes the likes of Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo and Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant, the popular NBA pundit says: “Durant, Markkanen; that’s the next level. Both of those guys we think are available.” If Simmons is right, his speculation won’t come from left field. Indeed, the Jazz were willing to trade Markkanen last offseason, with the Golden State Warriors and others hot on his trail.
NBA Pundit Believes Jazz’s Lauri Markkanen ‘Available’ For Trade
Markkanen signed a four year, $195.8 million contract extension with Utah once last summer’s trade negotiations fell through.
However, he probably didn’t do enough to secure his status as a franchise cornerstone afterward. In 2024-25, the seven-footer averaged 19.0 points, 5.9 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 0.4 blocks per game. He also shot 42.3 percent from the field and 34.6 percent from outside the arc. Hampered by myriad injuries, he played just 47 games; a career-low.
Honestly, Markkanen may have been resting on his laurels after a couple of strong seasons. To that point, he averaged 24.5 points and 8.4 rebounds per game and shot 39.5 percent from 3 in his first two seasons with the Jazz. As a result, he was able to shed the bust label that had followed him from Chicago. More than that, he earned his first and only All-Star selection in 2022-23.
It’s been rough sledding since then though.
The decrease in his scoring average reflects not just the Jazz adding talent around him but his limitations creating his own offense. If his three-ball isn’t falling, it’s often a long night. He doesn’t excel at setting the table for others either though, which makes his status as their No. 1 option even more problematic. His defensive lapses can be frustrating, especially given his length.
All of that being said, there’s a good reason to believe the Jazz are at least willing to trade Markkanen. The offers that they get for him may not be as strong as last year though. Thus, it’s possible that he’ll still return to Utah, where he could rebuild his value.
Potential Trade Suitors
If Utah does trade Markkanen, there have been whispers about the Philadelphia 76ers interest in him. Such a scenario would almost certainly lead to Paul George or the 2025 No. 3 pick being routed to Salt Lake City. Meanwhile, Markkanen’s skillset is still a natural fit for the Warriors. Golden State might be willing to trade both Brandin Podziemski and Jonathan Kuminga to the Jazz nowadays.
Alternatively, the Brooklyn Nets could entertain a Markkanen-Cam Johnson swap, which could lead to draft compensation as well. The Cleveland Cavaliers could take Markkanen back, perhaps giving up De’Andre Hunter. The San Antonio Spurs could be willing to trade Devin Vassell for him, especially if they draft Dylan Harper.
Nevertheless, regardless of the destination, any trade they make will have to be one where they receive real value in return. After all, they’re probably not just trying to give him away.
© Petre Thomas-Imagn Images
The post NBA Pundit Believes Jazz Cornerstone ‘Available’ For Trade appeared first on Last Word On Basketball.