Utah Jazz Extend Lauri Markkanen: Effects On Houston Rockets' Season

Houston's rival pursued the Finnish big, but Utah extends Markkanen in a move that affects the Rockets and one other team the most.

Jan 20, 2024; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Rockets forward Cam Whitmore (7) attempts to score a basket as Utah Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen (23) and guard Kris Dunn (11) defend during the fourth quarter at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports / Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

Utah Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen has reportedly agreed to a massive long-term contract extension with the Utah Jazz. The deal, reportedly worth over $200 million for five years, ensures that the Finnish star will remain with the Jazz through the 2028-29 season. This extension not only solidifies Markkanen’s role as a cornerstone of the Jazz franchise but also has some ripple effects across the league, particularly impacting teams like the Houston Rockets and the Golden State Warriors, who were rumored to be pursuing him in trade talks.

Markkanen’s extension comes after a stellar season where he averaged 24.5 points and 8.4 rebounds per game, earning him an All-Star selection and solidifying his status as one of the league’s better forwards. The Jazz’s decision to lock him in long-term reflects their commitment to building a competitive team around him, aiming to return to playoff contention in the coming years.

For the Houston Rockets, this development is a slight setback. The Rockets were reportedly interested in acquiring Markkanen to bolster their roster by fixing their struggles with offense and rebounding. Now that Markkanen is off the market, the Rockets will likely go into the season without having made a trade for a significant rotation player, unless something arises elsewhere.

Similarly, the Golden State Warriors, who were also in the mix for Markkanen, and the favorites to land him, will have to adjust their plans. The Warriors had reportedly made a strong push for the versatile forward, offering a package centered around Moses Moody and multiple draft picks. However, the Jazz’s asking price, which included young talent like Brandin Podziemski, proved too high for the Warriors to meet. With Markkanen staying in Utah, the Warriors will need to reassess their strategy for maintaining their competitive edge in the Western Conference.

Warriors final offer for Lauri Markkanen:

Moses Moody, multiple first-round picks, pick swaps and second-rounders, per @ShamsCharania

Golden State refused to offer Brandin Podziemski pic.twitter.com/SHs2i8yqHA

— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) August 6, 2024

The signing was unexpected, as it looked like a trade with Golden State was imminent, and if not that then a trade with Houston. The Warriors beat out the Rockets to make the last spot in the Play-In Tournament last season, and with Utah rebuilding but not too far behind with new talent coming in, the West has gotten more competitive from top to bottom.

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