Lauri Markkanen might finally have the chance to be one of the better scorers on an actual playoff team. For years, Markkanen has been playing well in on the Utah Jazz, but he hasn't reaped the rewards of a postseason appearance. This year, the Jazz look like they have a legitimate chance to make the playoffs. So, Markkanen could have a chance to be a top option on a playoff team. In fact, he should be Utah’s top offensive option all year.
It has always seemed like Markkanen has the talent to be that. He is an elite scorer, dominating from the three-point line and even getting inside when he needs to. But he's always been doing it for lottery teams. Now, even with a better infrastructure around him, the Jazz will still look to Markkanen to be the top scoring option.
It's going to be a fun challenge for Markkanen to do what he has been doing for the past few years in a different type of situation. He’s the most versatile offensive player Utah has.
Lauri Markkanen is still Jazz's top offensive option
Last year, the Jazz made a giant trade for Jaren Jackson Jr. It was at that point that it became clear that they were sick of being one of the worst teams in the Western Conference year after year.
They decided to land one of the better defenders in the NBA, giving up a massive haul of draft picks for him. And with that, it seems like they are ready to make a push for the playoffs.
Losing Walker Kessler over the summer definitely dampens those chances, but the Jazz still have a good roster. Keyonte George just signed an extension, the Jazz just drafted Darryn Peterson, and Ace Bailey is heading into his second season.
With all of those players in place, and some solid depth behind them, the Jazz should have a real chance at making some noise in the West. But Markkanen’s size, three-point shooting, and touch around the rim still make him Utah’s best offensive choice.
If they want to make the playoffs, however, Markkanen is going to have to do what he has done at a whole new level. He is going to have to score efficiently and score in big moments.
But that's going to be a fun challenge. It's going to be something he hasn't really gotten to do up to this point in Utah. He hasn't really gotten to compete at that level while scoring as much.
Obviously, there are going to be some mounts to feed. George, Peterson, and Jackson are all going to get their shots up. But Markkanen should still be the Jazz’s top offensive option.
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