NBA Rumors: Lauri Markkanen 'Doesn't Want to Be Traded' amid Warriors, Contract Buzz

Utah Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen has been one of the most popular trade candidates this offseason, but it sounds like he has no intentions of going anywhere.

During an appearance on The Drive with Spence Checketts on ESPN 700 in Salt Lake City, The Athletic's Tony Jones revealed that the most likely scenario is that Markkanen signs a contract extension with the Jazz after he becomes eligible on Aug. 6 because he doesn't have a desire to be traded from Utah.

"I would expect him to sign on August 7th, or after August 6th," Jones said (h/t HoopsHype). "Lauri doesn't want to be traded, so if he signs the renegotiation and extension, which I expect him to do, I expect him to do it after August 6th so there's no trade talk this year."

If Markkanen signs a new deal on Aug. 6, he will be ineligible to be traded for six months until next season's trade deadline on Feb. 6. If he signs on Aug. 7 or later, the Jazz would be restricted from trading him until the 2025 offseason.

"I don't even think him signing on August 6th is even that much of an option," Jones said. "We're almost 100 percent trending towards him signing on August 7th."

While Markkanen has reportedly been pursued by the Golden State Warriors and would have the chance to join a contending team, Jones went on to explain that the 27-year-old is committed to helping lead the Jazz back to prominence.

"Lauri has really taken to Utah. His family has taken to Utah. Obviously the Jazz can trade him between now and August 6th, and Lauri knows that, but Lauri has forged a really close relationship with [head coach] Will Hardy," Jones said. "And Will Hardy has really found a way to unlock his career in a manner that hasn't been accomplished before. Lauri really recognizes that, understands that, and appreciates that. He wants to be a part of the rebuild."

After missing the playoffs for the past two years, the Jazz appear to be set for another lost season as they try to position themselves near the top of the 2025 draft. Luckily, it sounds like Markkanen is willing to endure the hardship and remain a key member of Utah's future.

"The likely scenario is Lauri signs on August 7th, the Jazz prioritize the young guys during the season, and they try to enter the Cooper Flagg sweepstakes in the draft in 2025," Jones said.