One of this year’s top NBA free agents, Utah Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen, is no longer in the market. The Golden State Warriors, who had their interest in the All-Star since the start of the off-season, are now left disappointed. The Jazz, however, have made a smart move by reacquiring their emerging star.
According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, Markkanen has signed a five-year, $238 million contract renegotiation and extension, including $220 million in new money.
He is now ineligible for trade and his salary for the 2024-25 season has increased significantly. Wojnarowski added that Markkanen will go from earning $18 million on the final year of his previous contract to now earning $42 million.
Finishing off the last season strong, averaging 23.2 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game, Markkanen is growing strong. Markkaren aka the Finnisher carrying a number of achievements under him is resulting in his popularity among different NBA teams.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Lauri Markkanen, Utah Jazz, Golden State Warriors Updates
Talking about their interest in the Jazz power forward, the Warriors’ decision to acquire Markkanen was quite important. Failing to do so, the Warriors did not want to part ways with shooting or point guard Brandin Podziemsk. The trade between Markkanen and Podziemsk was something the Warriors were not ready for yet.
Drafted in 2023 by the Warriors, the 21-year-old rookie player Podziemsk is certainly a young talent as a point/shooting guard. The rookie player is coming off a season averaging 9.2 points, 5.8 points, and 3.7 assists in 74 games played.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Lauri Markkanen, Utah Jazz, Golden State Warriors Updates
After failing to make any deal, the Warriors have failed to replace someone in place of their star, Klay Thompson. The four-time NBA Champion, recently traded to the Dallas Mavericks after his 13-season career as a Warriors star, is setting for a new journey.
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