Utah Jazz: A new era has arrived in SLC for the rebuilding Jazz

Lauri Markkanen is an underrated piece for the Utah Jazz

Lauri Markkanen came into the league as a top 10 pick but his play hasn’t lived up to his draft status so far despite being such a talented player with so much potential. Markkanen’s scoring averages have fluctuated since he’s been in the NBA and it appeared that he would never develop into the player scouts predicted him to become.

This was mostly due in part to the way coaches used him putting him in positions that wouldn’t allow him to grow as a player or maximize his potential. Markkanen was also asked to play small forward when he is a natural fit as a stretch-4. He will be leaving a potential title contender going to a different situation but Markkanen should finally get the minutes and scoring responsibilities as the Jazz appear to have big plans for him.

If he puts in the necessary time and work, he could put up some career numbers this season. Markkanen can shoot, create his shot, is athletic for a guy his size, and can run the floor like a guard. Now, as a member of the Jazz, Markkanen will be given the opportunity to show that he can be that player everyone envisioned him to be.

Both Markkanen and Sexton have plenty to prove so expect them to play with huge chips on their shoulders. Markkanen has the potential to average anywhere from 20 to 25 points a game and double-digit rebounds and we can expect Hardy to heavily involve Markkanen in the offense as he should finally get the chance to unleash his potential after being held back and limited playing in schemes that didn’t quite match his skill set.