In theory, the Los Angeles Lakers could have potentially already had Lauri Markkanen before the NBA trade deadline. At least, it’s possible.
The Lakers and the Utah Jazz made a big trade at the deadline. It simply did not bring Markkanen to Hollywood.
Instead, the Lakers landed Jarred Vanderbilt and Malik Beasley. Those were solid acquisitions. With that said, they may not have been enough for the Lakers.
On the other hand, the Jazz may regret not getting more assets. They may also regret trading the younger Vanderbilt. The Jazz are outside of the league’s playoff picture.
This summer, they may want to operate as a rebuilding team.
If they do, could they send Markannen to Los Angeles after all?
