Utah Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen appears headed toward another absence, as he is officially listed as doubtful for Saturday’s game against Orlando while managing a right groin issue.
If he sits out, it would mark his second consecutive missed game, continuing a cautious approach by the team as it monitors the injury, according to Andy Larsen of The Salt Lake Tribune.
The timing is unfortunate, given how productive Markkanen has been to open the 2025/26 season.
Through 24 games, the 28-year-old has been playing some of the best basketball of his career, putting up a personal-best 27.8 points per game while also contributing 7.0 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 1.0 steal.
His efficiency has stood out as well, with shooting splits of .469 from the field, .352 from three, and .893 at the free-throw line across 35.3 minutes per night.
With Markkanen sidelined Thursday against the Lakers, Utah turned to second-year big man Kyle Filipowski, who stepped into the starting lineup for that loss.
If Markkanen is unable to go again, Filipowski could be in line for another start as the Jazz look to fill the scoring and spacing void left by their leading offensive option.
Injury Notes: Markkanen, Davis, Lakers, Grizzlies, Mann https://t.co/eMjDVXO9RQ pic.twitter.com/VnXxtVcDQN
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) December 20, 2025
