The 8 Greatest Jazz players in history, ranked by Player Efficiency Rating (PER)
By Will Eudy
5. Lauri Markkanen - 21.8
The second of two current players on this list, Lauri Markkanen has had an incredible run with the Jazz so far. It is hard to think of any player in the NBA who has seen their reputation change (for the better!) more over the last several seasons.
Coming to Utah after spending a single season in Cleveland in 2021-22, Lauri was basically a castaway. His career numbers were mostly unimpressive coming into the 2022-23 season, and not many GMs around the league had much interest in even taking a flyer on him. Of course, he was part of the deal that shipped out Donovan Mitchell, and he ultimately landed with the Jazz.
With his value being as low as it was, Utah got Markkanen for essentially what amounted to pocket change compared to his value now. In the two seasons since the trade, Lauri has put up 24.5 points per game on his way to earning the Most Improved Player award in 2022-23, along with an All-Star selection last year as well.
His value as a big wing that can light it up from outside has become immense. Looking at all the ways he impacts the game, it is no wonder he is so high on this list.