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Utah Jazz star forward Lauri Markkanen is a hot commodity as he becomes eligible next month to renegotiate and extend his contract with the team.
He is currently owed $18 million for the final year of his deal and will command much more from a new suitor.
Most experts believe the Jazz will only be swayed by a tremendous offer comparable to what the New York Knicks gave up to acquire Mikal Bridges.
As a refresher, that was a staggering four unprotected first-round draft selections, an unprotected pick swap and a protected first-round pick.
NBA insider Michael Scotto revealed that five teams interested in trading for Markkanen are the Warriors, Kings, Spurs, Timberwolves, and Pelicans.
Report: “The Warriors, Kings, Spurs, Timberwolves, and Pelicans are among the teams who’ve expressed interest in trading for Markkanen,” per @MikeAScotto.
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The question the Jazz must answer is how they will proceed with Markkanen’s and the team’s future.
Will they go out and get another star to pair with the Finnish import to build a true contender?
Or will they part with Markkanen while his trade value is at its peak and parlay what they get in return into the foundation for sustainable success for the franchise?
Markkanen elevated his game upon his arrival in Utah, having averaged 25.6 and 23.2 points per game in the last two seasons.
The 7-foot scorer may never be more valuable on the NBA market than he is right now, and interested teams are lining up to gauge what it will take to pry him loose from the Jazz.
For a team willing to pay the price, Markkanen could be an intriguing piece to a championship puzzle.
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