1. Lauri Markkanen
Quite a leap we did there, huh? Of course, this list can’t not end with a star-laden exclamation. Still somehow one of the less popular stars force-fed into trade discussions, Lauri Markkanen would simply be the dream trade acquisition for most teams, and that includes the third star-thirsting Philadelphia 76ers.
Utah is currently firm on its no-trade stance with the All-Star, but it’s only matter of time for the franchise to realizr that they have no other viable ways to truly rebuild with Markkanen still in the fold. He’s too good to supercharge a tank job, but he’s not enough to push them over the playoff hump. Alas, their front office is advertently refusing to give him help. Go figure.
Philadelphia, however, can offer Utah a surfeit of draft picks without having to burden them with salaries in return. The most reasonable path for the Jazz is to keep stockpiling draft capital, and initiating that edict this offseason to preapre for a star-studded and jampacked 2025 NBA Draft, has a high probability of giving them a much brighter and sustainable long-term outlook.