Markkanen (hip) amassed 23 points (7-14 FG, 2-6 3Pt, 7-8 FT), four rebounds, two assists, one steal and one block in 29 minutes during Finland's 85-77 win over Hungary on Friday.
Markkanen was out for roughly the final two months of the NBA regular season with a hip injury, but he looks to be entering the new year with a clean bill of health following a FIBA appearance. The star forward was excellent when healthy last year, having averaged 26.7 points, 6.9 rebounds, 2.1 assists and 1.0 steals in 34.4 minutes across 42 games in 2025-26. However, it'll be interesting to see how Darryn Peterson's presence influences Markkanen's usage moving forward.
Utah's selection of Darryn Peterson with the No. 2 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft should help ease some offensive pressure on Markkanen (hip).
The veteran forward has often carried a significant scoring burden during the rebuilding process, and the arrival of an elite shot creator could create more favorable opportunities. Markkanen remains the focal point of Utah's frontcourt, although trade speculation and the team's long-term direction could still influence his outlook.
Markkanen (hip) will not play in Sunday's season finale against the Lakers.
As expected, Markkanen will sit out the final game of the season. He ended the campaign having last played Feb. 23. Despite playing just 42 games, Markkanen had what could be considered a bounceback season -- at least in the box score. In his 34.4 minutes per game, he averaged 26.7 points, 6.9 rebounds, 2.1 assists and 1.0 steals.
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Jazz's Lauri Markkanen: Won't play Friday
Rotowire
Markkanen (hip) has been ruled out for Friday's game against the Grizzlies.
Markkanen is still recovering from a right hip impingement and hasn't played since Feb. 23. His last chance to suit up this season will come in Sunday's regular-season finale against the Lakers, though he can be considered doubtful for that contest until the Jazz offer an update on his status.
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