Lauri Markkanen agrees to multiyear deal to remain with the Utah Jazz
SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Lauri Markkanen received a five-year, $238 million contract with Utah on Wednesday, according to his agent, ensuring the Jazz have a key element in their rebuilding plans.
Agent Michael Lelchitski of Sports International Group also said the deal includes $220 million in new money, and his salary for next season increases by $24 million. Markkanen’s deal had one year left at $18 million before the new agreement.
“I’m excited to get this extension done,” Markkanen said in a video message posted on X. “I’m ready to get back to work and build with this franchise.”
He also thanked Jazz management for getting the deal done.
“Lauri’s ability to score in multiple ways and his versatility as a player makes our team better,” Jazz CEO Danny Ainge said in a statement. “He embodies our team’s core values on and off the court. We’re glad that he wants to be a part of our future and what we’re building here in Utah.”
Utah locks up a player who has averaged 24.5 points since being traded to the club two years ago. Markkanen, a 7-footer who can extend the court with his 3-point prowess, was named the NBA’s Most Improved Player in his first Jazz season and appeared on his first All-Star team.
Utah locks up a player who has averaged 24.5 points since being traded to the club two years ago. Markkanen, a 7-footer who can extend the court with his 3-point prowess, was named the NBA’s Most Improved Player in his first Jazz season and appeared on his first All-Star team.
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