Since Austin Ainge became Utah’s president of basketball operations last month, the Jazz have been actively shedding veteran players, including buying out Jordan Clarkson and trading Collin Sexton and John Collins for minimal returns.
Despite rumors from scouts and executives that Lauri Markkanen could be next, Tim MacMahon of ESPN reports the Jazz have no plans to trade their star forward for now.
While not completely “untouchable,” Markkanen is still seen as part of Utah’s long-term core, with hopes he remains on the roster when the team becomes competitive again.
Markkanen, acquired in the 2022 Donovan Mitchell trade, made an All-Star team and won Most Improved Player in his first year with Utah, averaging 24.5 points and 8.4 rebounds over two seasons with strong shooting percentages.
However, injuries limited him to 47 games last season, and his production dropped to 19 points and 5.9 rebounds per game with less efficiency.
With four years and nearly $196 million left on his contract, Markkanen’s trade value has declined, making the Jazz reluctant to entertain offers without a big haul.
He’ll likely need a strong bounce-back season to regain value. Still, keeping him doesn’t hinder Utah’s rebuild as they protect their 2026 first-round pick and lack enough veteran talent to contend in the 2025/26 season, even if Markkanen returns to All-Star form.
Jazz Have No Plans To Trade Markkanen https://t.co/8bELLimiI9 pic.twitter.com/pvtVMqPnpw
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) July 15, 2025
