The Utah Jazz’s forward Lauri Markkanen is likely to get signed by the Sixers this summer. A trade deal involving three teams is being discussed which would land the 26 year old in Philadelphia. The Sixers are already struggling with the James Harden situation and this is a simultaneous attempt to build the roster in case they fail to manage that.
Harden has requested for a move to the Clippers and Joel Embiid might leave the Sixers as well if that happens. So, they are trying to rebuild while they convince both of them to stay. Another Scenario is that they can put Harden in this trade and land Lauri Markkanen. Here is all the information about the three team deal involving the Los Angeles Clippers, the Utah Jazz and the Philadelphia Sixers.
What would the three teams get in the deal involving Lauri Markkanen?
The Sixers would get their hands on Lauri Markkanen and Robert Covington while the Clippers would receive James Harden and Collin Sexton. This deal would give Jazz a bumper return as they would acquire Norman Powell, Marcus Harris, Amir Coffey, Kobe Brown, Brandon Boston, one 2030 first round pick each from the Clippers and the Sixers and a 2029 first round pick via swap.
Bleacher Report’s trade idea:
Miami Heat Receive: Lauri Markkanen
Utah Jazz Receive: Jaime Jaquez Jr., Duncan Robinson, 2024 first-round pick* (top-one protection), 2028 first-round pick (top-three protection) pic.twitter.com/zngNk2YsVS
— Heat Nation (@HeatNationCom) July 17, 2023
How did Lauri Markkanen perform last season?
While playing 66 games for the Jazz last season, Lauri averaged 25.6 points per game while shooting 39.1 percent 3 pointers, 49.9 percent from the field and 87.5 percent from the free throw line. He also registered 1.9 assists and 8.6 rebounds last season. His excellent performance earned him his first All-Star team and he also laid his hands on the most improved player of the year trophy.
Lauri Markkanen before the Mike Conley trade:
FG%: 51.8
3P%: 42.2
9Cat Rank: 14thLauri Markkanen after the Mike Conley trade:
FG%: 45.3
3P%: 31.5
9Cat Rank: 37thThe Jazz still don’t have an NBA point guard on their roster.
— Jason (@DBCJason) August 5, 2023
How likely is the Lauri Markkanen deal?
The Jazz are more likely to extend their 26 year old forward than do this deal. Lauri did put up a show last season and he deserves an extension. Even though the deal might not happen, if it does, it would be great to see Embiid and Lauri on the field together.
Will the Jazz negotiate and extend Lauri or will they accept the deal? We’ll keep you updated.
