Lauri Markkanen, Utah Jazz
Trade rumors about Lauri Markkanen have been swirling for about two years now, and I continue to struggle to understand why the Utah Jazz think that Markkanen is worth building around. Yes, Markkanen is a great player who has developed into a better player than most ever anticipated, but given the current state of the Western Conference, there is no chance he’ll ever be the best player on a championship trade. On the other hand, a contender should view Markkanen as a potential second or third option on a championship team that could get them over the hump. The Jazz are still rebuilding, and a team will be willing to give an absolute haul up to acquire Markkanen. Imagine how many picks the Oklahoma City Thunder will be willing to part ways with in a potential bidding war! Come on Danny Ainge, do the deal.
