The Utah Jazz should finally trade Lauri Markkanen and embrace a total rebuild after dumping John Collins for virtually zero return. They clearly have zero interest in competing in the crowded Western Conference and now is the perfect time to cash out on the All-Star big man. It is hard to find a stretch four with Markkanen’s versatility and sending him out ensures the Jazz finish at the bottom of the West.
It is clear Utah is looking at the future. They have already dumped Jordan Clarkson, Collin Sexton, and Collins in an eventful offseason. Those are all moves to open minutes for young talents. The Jazz are rebuilding, and the 2026 draft is loaded. Getting a top-five pick could be franchise-changing. Finishing with the worst record in the NBA guarantees that draft position.
Markkanen is in his prime and has never appeared in an NBA playoff game. He likely wants a shot to win. The seven-footer is under contract through 2029, but this could be Utah’s shot to cash in, embrace youth, and build fully around the Ace Bailey timeline.
Jazz should trade Lauri Markkanen to embrace the tank
Markkanen is set to make $195.8 million over the next four years. It is massive money, but he is a proven 20-point scorer capable of stretching the floor. He was an All-Star in 2023 and may significantly boost his impact in a winning situation. The Warriors had interest in 2024 and could be one of many teams who come knocking if Markkanen is on the block.
Utah needs their primary creator. They have several exciting young talents, but the franchise lacks the playmaker who unlocks them. Mikel Brown Jr. is projected to go fifth by ESPN in the 2026 NBA Draft behind four do-it all potential superstars. Getting a high-end prospect or a lead guard would instantly improve their rebuild. The Jazz figure to finish near the bottom with Markkanen, but they guarantee the worst record for the second year in a row without him.
Utah has missed the playoffs for three straight years and 2026 will be a fourth. The fan base doesn’t want to wait forever, but the Jazz need a star to get back to contention. There is only one way to acquire one, and it is through the draft. The 2026 class projects to be special, so the Jazz should do whatever possible to ensure they have a top selection.
Lauri Markkanen did not play like an All-Star last season, but his shooting and scoring are impactful. The Jazz should get whatever value possible and fully embrace their youth.
The Utah Jazz are heading in this direction already. They have dumped three veterans and should send Lauri Markkanen packing next. The 2026 draft is that special. The Jazz should have the worst record in the NBA as they let Ace Bailey develop. That is their path to exiting their rebuild with a serious title-contending roster. There will be more pain, but it will be worthwhile if everything breaks right.