Lauri Markkanen and the Utah Jazz are expected to finalize a 5-year contract extension, which is projected to be worth over $200 million. Markkanen will also be ineligible for a trade during the entire 2024-25 season.
Lauri Markkanen has been the most sought-after trade candidate this offseason, but he is set to stay with the Utah Jazz.
According to Shams Charania from The Athletic, Markkanen and the Jazz are expected to agree to a substantial long-term contract extension.
According to the report, Markkanen's extension is projected to be worth over $200 million over five years. This extension will render him ineligible for trade during the entire 2024-25 season.
This will lock Markkanen under contract until 2029, making it the largest contract in Jazz history and one of the highest salaries for a European player in NBA history.
Throughout the past month, the Jazz entertained trade discussions involving Markkanen with multiple teams, including the San Antonio Spurs, Sacramento Kings, and Golden State Warriors.
The Warriors presented the most aggressive offer, but no team matched the Jazz's high valuation for Markkanen.
Over the past two seasons, Markkanen has averaged 24.4 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game, shooting 49 percent from the field and 40 percent from three-point range.
His outstanding performance earned him a spot in the 2023 All-Star Game and the Most Improved Player award.
