The Utah Jazz endured a challenging 2024–25 NBA season, finishing with the league’s worst record.
As the team shifts its focus toward rebuilding and long-term development, questions have naturally surfaced regarding the future of its veteran core, most notably All-Star forward Lauri Markkanen.
Despite speculation around possible trades, Jazz general manager Justin Zanik made it clear that Markkanen remains a foundational piece of Utah’s plans, though he stopped short of ruling out any scenario.
“We’ll see when opportunities come up to add to the roster,” Zanik said when asked directly about Markkanen’s availability. “But I see Lauri as a central part of what we’re doing, that’s why we signed him. We think he can be a huge piece for us as we join the competitive rings.”
Zanik’s comments signal a desire to keep the Finnish forward at the heart of Utah’s rebuilding project, highlighting his value both on and off the court.
Since arriving in Utah, Markkanen has emerged as a leader and one of the team’s most consistent performers, earning his first All-Star nod in 2023 and continuing to be a bright spot despite the team’s overall struggles.
For his part, Markkanen echoed a deep sense of loyalty and optimism about the future in Salt Lake City. When asked whether he hoped to remain with the Jazz moving forward, his answer was swift and sincere.
“Definitely,” Markkanen affirmed. “I feel like what I did last summer with signing here, that kind of tells you the confidence I have in the organization and the guys we have. I love being in Utah.”
Markkanen also acknowledged the unpredictable nature of the NBA offseason but emphasized that his commitment to the team remains firm.
“We’ll see what happens in summer, there’s things that you can’t control,” he added. “But I love being here and working out with the guys that we have and building this thing.”
The Jazz now face a pivotal offseason. With cap space, draft assets, and a clear need to reshape the roster, Utah could be active in pursuing new talent.
However, if Zanik’s and Markkanen’s words are any indication, the plan is to build around the 7-foot sharpshooter rather than move on from him.
As the franchise looks to turn the page on a difficult campaign, it seems clear that Lauri Markkanen is not just a part of Utah’s present, but potentially its long-term future.
Lauri Markkanen, Jazz Remain Committed To Each Other https://t.co/N6McrEU8ss
— RealGM (@RealGM) April 18, 2025
