The Utah Jazz have signed All-Star forward Lauri Markkanen to a five-year, $238 million contract extension, including $220 in new money. The new deal establishes Markkanen as the centerpiece of the Jazz’s long-term future as they look to continue to surround him with talented young players through the draft. 

Markkanen’s name has been a nucleus of many offseason NBA discussions – none of them have had anything to do with what he can do for Utah. Many teams have expressed interest in trade for Markannen, 27, or have been linked to him. His combination of size, shooting, athleticism, and ability to space the floor are all traits heavily sought after by nearly every team in the NBA. At 6-foot-11, Markkanen shot 39.9% from beyond the arc. 

The signing of Markkanen this late into the offseason is significant because his six-month period trade immunity from the Jazz means he cannot be traded before the February 6 deadline. The Jazz will have him for the entire 2024-25 season, meaning teams linked to him in trade circles – Sacramento Kings, Oklahoma City Thunder, Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Lakers – will have to be patient until next offseason or pivot toward different options.