One NBA writer is proposing that the Miami Heat acquire Lauri Markkanen from the Utah Jazz in a blockbuster trade.
Dan Favale of Bleacher Report proposed that the Heat trade Jaime Jaquez Jr., Duncan Robinson, a 2024 first-round pick and a 2028 first-round pick to the Jazz for Markkanen. Miami must renegotiate protections on its 2025 obligation to the Oklahoma City Thunder so it conveys in 2026.
“Markkanen is an out-there target,” Favale wrote. “The Jazz haven’t given any inclination they’d move him. That tracks. He is only 26, just earned an All-Star selection and has two years left on his deal at the bargain rate of $35.3 million.
“Miami would no doubt prefer an off-the-dribble advantage creator, but Markkanen is a home run acquisition. He can fill the frontcourt spot next to Bam Adebayo or absorb minutes at the 3, and his offense is a unique hybrid of one part self-sustaining, two parts play-finishing around his surroundings.”
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Lauri Markkanen, Utah Jazz & Miami Heat Updates
Markkanen is one of the best players in the NBA. He averaged 25.6 points, 8.6 rebounds and 1.9 assists last season for the Jazz while shooting 49.9% from the field, 39.1% from beyond the arc and 87.5% from the free-throw line. The 26-year-old made his first All-Star team and won the Most Improved Player of the Year Award.
Markkanen has career averages of 17.3 points, 7.1 rebounds and 1.4 assists with the Chicago Bulls, Cleveland Cavaliers and Jazz. He would certainly help the Heat contend for a championship. After all, Miami has made two Finals since Jimmy Butler came to South Beach in 2019 and Markkanen is one of the most skilled scorers and shooters in the league.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Lauri Markkanen, Utah Jazz & Miami Heat Updates
The Heat are currently trying to acquire Damian Lillard, who has demanded that the Portland Trail Blazers trade him to Miami. However, the Blazers are not impressed with the Heat’s offer for Lillard, who can’t force a trade since he doesn’t have a no-trade clause in his contract.
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