Lauri Markkanen praised Utah Jazz teammates for their contributions in Monday’s 140-133 overtime win against the Dallas Mavericks. “I try to affect the game really however I can… happy to get [the loose balls] and obviously helped our win tonight,” he said about his rebounding.
The forward noted the excitement of playing alongside younger players getting NBA minutes. “It’s exciting… you can tell those reps help because those guys were ready to play today and really made a difference,” Markkanen added.
Markkanen highlighted Keyonte George’s continued scoring consistency. “It takes pressure off of you and Keyonte is obviously a great player… he keeps working and keeps getting better every day,” he said.
He also praised the versatility of Utah’s lineups, including Brice Sensabaugh’s contributions. “It’s exciting and a little adjustment… happy how they’re able to figure it out… it’s never going to be complete, but happy to get some different lineups out there,” Markkanen noted.
The veteran forward commented on Kyle Filipowski’s development and growing impact. “He knows where the guys are even if he’s not looking… stronger with the ball and makes big-time plays at the rim,” he said.
Markkanen reflected on the team’s defensive execution late in the game, particularly against Mavericks rookie Cooper Flagg. “We tried to slow him down… we were able to get the needed misses down the stretch that we need,” he said.
Utah relied on Markkanen’s 33 points and 16 rebounds alongside George’s 37 points. Kyle Filipowski added 16 of his 25 points in the fourth quarter and overtime, helping the Jazz overcome Dallas’ late lead.
The Jazz limited the Mavericks to 1-for-9 shooting in overtime, outscoring them 11-4 in the extra period. With the win, Utah improves to 10-15 and secures back-to-back victories for only the second time this season.
Utah will host the Lakers on Thursday, while Dallas returns home to face the Pistons. Both teams are adjusting their rotations after the high-scoring overtime battle.
