Lauri Markkanen Rumors: New Jazz Contract Unlikely This Week Amid Warriors Trade Buzz

Lauri Markkanen is "unlikely" to sign a long-term contract extension with the Utah Jazz by Tuesday, according to Tony Jones of The Athletic.

On Tuesday, Markkanen will be eligible for a contract extension that could increase his 2024-25 salary from $18 million.

ESPN's Bobby Marks and Tim MacMahon reported on Monday that the Golden State Warriors have been the "most aggressive" suitor for the forward on the trade market, although the Warriors and Jazz have "not come close" on a potential deal in discussions.

Utah has been intrigued by Golden State guard Brandon Podziemski in trade talks, although the Warriors have been "very protective" of the 21-year-old, via Marks and MacMahon.

NBA insider Marc Stein reported on Sunday that Warriors trade proposals for Markkanen haven't included Podziemski or forward Jonathan Kuminga, who's coming off a breakout 2023-24 campaign.

However, Markkanen's looming extension decision could prevent him from switching teams for a while.

If the 27-year-old signs a new contract to stay with the organization on Aug. 6, he won't be eligible to be moved until the trade deadline of Feb. 6. If he waits at least one more day and signs a new deal on Aug. 7 or later, Utah wouldn't be able to trade him until the end of the 2024-25 season.

While the Jazz haven't made the playoffs in Markkanen's two seasons with the team, he may not want to be moved during the year. Jones previously revealed that the 2023 All-Star "doesn't want to be traded" on July 26.

Although he wasn't named an All-Star for the second consecutive year, Markkanen still wrapped up an impressive 2023-24 season with Utah.

He averaged 23.2 points and 8.2 rebounds per game, shooting 48.0 percent from the field and 39.9 percent from behind the arc in 55 contests.