A Lauri Markkanen-Joel Embiid frontcourt would be a Philadelphian dream
Past the trade deadline, the field has been mum on the Utah Jazz’s immediate plans with Lauri Markkanen. However, expect things on that front to re-ignite once the summer begins given the expected lofty demand for the All-Star’s services.
Inarguably the biggest breakout star in the NBA last season, Markkanen has maintained his eye-popping production across the board. Problem is, the Jazz are already eliminated from playoff contention, and the conflict between his win-now value and the franchise’s inhibited rebuild is all too bold to overlook.
Utah was believed to be amenable to trading Markkanen for the right package, and their front office shuld resume operating under that idea come summer. The 76ers should quickly line up whenever they open phone lines, as Markkanen would be a terrific partner for Joel Embiid in the frontcourt.
Markkanen, who can legitimately play all frontcourt positions, would give the 76ers a much-needed trigger man on the perimeter who can also create for himself on the secondary. His presence would allow the team to play big defensively while sticking to a modern fit offensively, potentially enhancing Embiid and Tyrese Maxey’s efficiency with his gravitational pull.