Utah Jazz: The case for, and against, free agent Lauri Markkanen

The case against the Utah Jazz signing Lauri Markkanen

Fans of the Utah Jazz who just watched Rudy Gobert struggle against the Los Angeles Clippers’ small-ball units in the Western Conference semifinals may not love the idea of adding another prodding big man who struggles to close out three-point attempts. Especially one that doesn’t even compensate by protecting the rim with elite effectiveness.

Indeed, a front court pairing of Rudy Gobert and Lauri Markkanen feels like a grouping that could dominate some situations, and wither in critical ones. That’s not a great tradeoff. Of course, conceptually, we’ve already advocated for Markkanen to both play alongside the Stifle Tower and spell him as a backup 5. Nonetheless, if Markkanen were unable to play consistently effectively alongside Gobert, it’s hard to imagine enough time would be available in the rotation for a player of his caliber.

In the modern NBA, the line between a “tweener” and a positionless player is a fine one, but Lauri Markkanen may well draw a line in the sand. At 24 with a fitting combination of length, size, strength and verticality, he still has time to develop into a league-average rim-protector and establish himself as a center. For now, he’s still listed as a power forward, but watching him defend some of the league’s more wing-like 4s could wear thin on the Utah Jazz faithful rather quickly.

Overall, signing Lauri Markkanen would mark a sudden departure for a Utah Jazz team on course to have one of the league’s most solid-yet-understated offseasons. If Markkanen commands the type of contract some expected he could entering this offseason, the Jazz should not be willing to move mountains to give it to him.

On the other hand, if Dennis Schroder’s one-year, $5.8 million dollar “prove it” pact provides a precedent for the still-without-a-home Finnish big man, the Utah Jazz may at least have a lot to think about.