Why the Lauri Markkanen extension makes the Jazz so fascinating

Utah isn't going to be good, but their situation is really interesting as a thought exercise on how it plays out.

Good morning. Let’s basketball.

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Ponderer; Vilho Lampi; 1929

Last week, the Utah Jazz reached an extension agreement with one-time All-Star Lauri Markkanen following a summer of trade rumors. The extension is officially five years for $238 million, which includes a huge raise for the 2024-25 season using Utah’s available cap space. The timing of the deal precludes Markkanen from being traded until next summer. There will be no Finnish savior for the Warriors this season. (Unless Petteri Koponen is available?)

This is a really interesting deal on a number of levels. Let’s dig in.

MARKKANEN IS CLEARLY WORTH IT

No one seems to believe that The Finnisher is a top-tier centrifugal force in the NBA. He’s not ever likely to appear on an MVP ballot. But his unique combination of physical abilities and skills are so valuable and flexible that he should absolutely maintain a high level of value through his peak. Shooting, size and athleticism: it’s kind of a holy grail that would fit with any other NBA star. It’s really hard to come up with the name of a top-25 player who wouldn’t be able to play with Markkanen. That — plus his age, at 27, and the fact that the salary cap will continue to increase — makes him a great value play, even at a now-huge salary.

THE JAZZ ARE NOT COMPETITIVE IN THE WEST