3 internal Utah Jazz co-star candidates for Lauri Markkanen

Ochai Agbaji

In the second half of the season, Agbaji earned a lot more playing time. Once the Utah Jazz’s trade deadline dealings were over, he finally earned the opportunity most assumed he would have from the jump.

When he was drafted by the Cleveland Cavaliers, Agbaji was projected to fill in as a top wing in their rotation. Yet when he was traded to the Jazz, he didn’t earn much playing time.

Predicted to be one of the most NBA-ready prospects, Agbaji only played 15.1 minutes before the All-Star break. Post-All-Star, that number jumped up to 29.6 minutes.

Sometimes, a player needs a little time to adjust to the league’s speed.

While Agbaji didn’t shoot particularly well in the last portion of the season, he finally earned a chance to get his legs under him. With a full offseason behind him and the staff (most likely) showing more confidence in him, Agbaji should be able to grow.

Second-year players are always expected to take major steps as they have finally warmed up to the NBA landscape. Who’s to say Agbaji won’t fall into that category and break out as a star?

It’s not a guarantee, but at just 23 years old, it’s certainly possible.