It took only 1 game for Lauri Markkanen to prove Jazz were right to keep him

The Utah Jazz may have lost their home opener against the Memphis Grizzlies, but Lauri Markkanen is as good as ever. Not that there wasn't any doubt about that, but knowing how questioned his extension was, Markkanen proved he was worth every penny.

In 34 minutes of action, Markkanen put up 35 points and nine rebounds against a team that, despite having a season from hell last year, intends to return to the postseason. The fact that such a challenge didn't phase "The Finnisher" shows just how incredible he is.

Markkanen's performance was impressive not only because he dominated until the game's final seconds but also because he showed his ability to excel in multiple phases of the game. Not that he broke new ground as a player, but Markkanen showed that even some of the best NBA teams can't stop him when he's on his A-game.

Lauri Markkanen also proved why he'll be hard to trade

Markkanen not only got an extension but also a pay raise for this season. If that's not enough, he signed on a particular day to ensure that the Jazz can't trade him until next summer at the earliest. Doing so proved his loyalty to Utah, which he has expressed in the past. However, the Jazz had to agree to these terms, too, which is notable.

By agreeing to the terms, they are showing that they want to see how far Markkanen can go with them. Many have clamored to trade him for more assets so that they can embrace the rebuild. The problem with that is there's no guarantee that they will get another player of his caliber because the draft is a crapshoot.

Games like last night demonstrate further why getting rid of someone like Markkanen is far from an easy decision. He fits the modern NBA to a tee because he is a rare specimen as a basketball player who unlocks so much by himself. Not many players are simultaneously three-point snipers and lob threats, but Markkanen's size and frame make him one.

Among those who are, not many can create their shot at the same level Markkanen can. He's not among the best of the best in the NBA, but he's not too far off, which is why the Jazz chose right to, at the very least, let him stick around another year.

It's true that the Jazz would get a lot for Markkanen if they traded him, but there's a reason why they didn't really entertain that option when it presented itself this offseason. Last night proved why the Jazz have faith in their lone All-Star.