Lauri Markkanen Injury Update: What Happened to Lauri Markkanen?
by Aishwarya R
Updated Nov 28, 2023
Lauri Markkanen Injury Update
Lauri Markkanen's injury status for the upcoming Pelicans-Jazz game is not promising, as he has been ruled out for the second consecutive game due to a left hamstring strain. This absence is a significant blow to the Utah Jazz, as Markkanen has been one of their key players this season, contributing an average of 23.7 points, 8.7 rebounds, 1.1 assists, and 1.1 steals per game. The Jazz's official injury report indicates that Markkanen is the only player listed as "OUT" for the game against the New Orleans Pelicans. On a positive note, Jordan Clarkson is listed as "AVAILABLE" after dealing with an illness. However, the Jazz will still be without Josh Christopher, Johnny Juzang, and Micah Potter, who are all currently in the G League.
Despite Markkanen's absence, the Jazz will look to build on their recent victory over the Pelicans, where they secured a 105-100 win at home on Saturday. The team currently holds the 12th seed in the Western Conference with a 5-11 record, aiming to improve their standing as they face the Pelicans and subsequently the Memphis Grizzlies on Wednesday. In contrast, the New Orleans Pelicans, with a 9-8 record and holding the ninth seed in the West, will seek to capitalize on Markkanen's absence to secure a road victory. After facing the Jazz, the Pelicans are scheduled to play the Philadelphia 76ers in their next game on Wednesday, aiming to maintain a positive record as they continue their season.
Lauri Markkanen's recovery will be closely monitored by the Jazz, as his contributions on both ends of the court have been crucial to the team's performance this season. The hope is that he can return to action soon and contribute to the Jazz's efforts to climb the Western Conference standings.
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Who is Lauri Markkanen?
Lauri Elias Markkanen is a professional basketball player from Finland who currently plays for the Utah Jazz in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Born on May 22, 1997, Markkanen has earned the nickname "the Finnisher." He comes from a family with a strong sports background, being the son of Pekka and Riikka Markkanen, both of whom were Finnish basketball players. Additionally, his younger brother, Eero Markkanen, is involved in football.
Markkanen's basketball journey began with HBA-Märsky in the Finnish second-tier league. He later made the transition to the United States to play college basketball for the Arizona Wildcats. In his lone year with the team, he distinguished himself and earned First-team All-Pac-12 honors. In the 2017 NBA draft, Markkanen was initially selected seventh overall by the Minnesota Timberwolves. However, he was involved in a draft-night trade that sent him to the Chicago Bulls in exchange for Jimmy Butler. Markkanen showcased his skills during his time with the Bulls and subsequently had a stint with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Notably, Markkanen experienced a career resurgence after joining the Utah Jazz. In the 2022-2023 season, he achieved significant milestones, earning his first All-Star selection and being honored with the Most Improved Player Award. His contributions on the court, marked by scoring, rebounding, and defensive capabilities, have solidified his status as a key player for the Jazz. With a promising trajectory, Lauri Markkanen continues to make a mark in the NBA, representing both his Finnish roots and the talent he brings to the game.
Name
Lauri Markkanen
Jersey No.
23
Team
Utah Jazz
Position
Small forward / Power forward
League
NBA
Born
22 May 1997
Birthplace
Vantaa, Finland
Age
26
Listed Height
7 ft 0 in (2.13 m)
Listed Weight
240 lb (109 kg)
College
Arizona (2016–2017)
NBA Draft
2017: 1st round, 7th overall pick
Selected by
Minnesota Timberwolves
Playing Career
2014–present
Lauri Markkanen Career
Lauri Markkanen's basketball career has been marked by remarkable achievements, beginning with his early commitment to the Arizona Wildcats in the NCAA Division I. Born on May 22, 1997, in Vantaa, Finland, Markkanen's journey in the sport has been shaped by his family's basketball background, with both his parents being professional players.
College Career
Markkanen verbally committed to the Arizona Wildcats in October 2015 and signed a letter of intent in November of the same year. His one-year stint with the Wildcats during the 2016–17 season showcased his exceptional skills, earning him recognition as a possible one-and-done candidate for the NBA draft. Markkanen made an impact, receiving numerous accolades, including Pac-12 Player of the Week and Oscar Robertson National Player of the Week. His achievements also led to selections in various award watchlists and midseason awards.
He set records during his time with the Wildcats, becoming the first player since Mike Bibby to wear jersey number 10. Markkanen's versatility and scoring ability, particularly his three-point shooting, garnered attention, with SB Nation calling him "the best shooting 7-footer college basketball has ever seen."
NBA Draft and Chicago Bulls
After an impressive freshman season, Markkanen declared for the 2017 NBA draft and was selected by the Minnesota Timberwolves as the seventh overall pick. However, he was traded to the Chicago Bulls on draft night. Markkanen had a successful rookie season with the Bulls, earning a spot on the NBA All-Rookie First Team. His subsequent seasons with the Bulls saw continued growth and notable performances, including career-high scoring games and achievements like surpassing Hanno Möttölä as the career leading scorer among NBA players from Finland. Unfortunately, Markkanen faced health issues in the 2021-2022 season, leading to him being ruled out for the rest of the season after tests.
Cleveland Cavaliers
In August 2021, Markkanen was traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers in a three-team deal. During his lone season in Cleveland, Markkanen continued to showcase his scoring and rebounding abilities, averaging 14.8 points and 5.7 rebounds per game.
Utah Jazz and Recent Achievements
On September 1, 2022, Markkanen was traded to the Utah Jazz. His time with the Jazz has been marked by outstanding performances, including a career-high 49 points in a game against the Houston Rockets. Markkanen was named to his first NBA All-Star game and, later, was announced as a starter due to injuries to other players. In April 2023, Markkanen was honored with the NBA Most Improved Player Award, recognizing his significant contributions and improvement during the season. He continues to be a key player for the Jazz, contributing both offensively and defensively.
International Career
Markkanen has also represented Finland in international competitions, making his debut with the U-18 national team in 2015 and later playing with the senior national team at EuroBasket 2017 and 2022. His performances have been crucial in leading Finland to notable victories and achieving personal milestones. Lauri Markkanen's career is characterized by his scoring prowess, versatility on the court, and significant contributions both in the NBA and on the international stage, making him a standout talent from Finland.
Lauri Markkanen Family and Early Life
Lauri Markkanen was born on May 22, 1997, in Vantaa, Finland, and he grew up in Jyväskylä. His family has a strong background in sports, particularly in basketball. Lauri is the son of Pekka and Riikka Markkanen (née Ellonen), both of whom were professional basketball players. Pekka and Riikka's influence likely played a significant role in shaping Lauri's early interest and talent in the sport.
Lauri has two brothers. One of them, Miikka, is a former professional basketball player, further emphasizing the family's connection to the sport. The other brother, Eero, has pursued a career in professional football.
During his formative years, Lauri Markkanen played junior basketball for the local team HoNsU, contributing to his development in the sport. His journey continued as he played for HBA-Märsky in the Finnish second-tier league from 2014 to 2016. This early exposure to competitive basketball, combined with the athletic background of his family, likely played a crucial role in shaping Lauri's skills and passion for the game.
Lauri's diverse family background, with members involved in both basketball and football, showcases a rich sporting heritage. His upbringing in Jyväskylä and his early experiences with local teams laid the foundation for a career that would eventually take him to the highest levels of professional basketball in the United States.
Lauri Markkanen Wife and Children
Lauri Markkanen's wife is Aho Markkanen, and the couple has been married since 2017. They share a beautiful family with two children. Their first child, a son, was born in 2018, and they welcomed another child in 2020. Aho Markkanen, as reported by GHBase.com, was born and raised in Helsinki, Finland. She has been an integral part of Lauri's life, having known each other since their time in middle school. Their relationship blossomed during their teenage years, and Aho has been a constant source of support for Lauri throughout his basketball career, both in Europe and the NBA.
Aho Markkanen's role in Lauri's life extends back to the beginning of his basketball journey, showcasing the strength and longevity of their relationship. Her support has likely been a significant factor in Lauri's success and growth as a basketball player. The Markkanen family, with Aho as the loving partner and mother, reflects a sense of stability and unity. Their two children add joy and warmth to their lives, creating a well-rounded and supportive family environment for Lauri as he continues to excel in his basketball career with the Utah Jazz.
Lauri Markkanen Net Worth
Lauri Markkanen Net Worth is $1 million. His primary source of income is his professional basketball career. As an NBA player, he earns a substantial salary from his contract with the Utah Jazz. NBA players receive compensation for their playing services, which includes a combination of base salary, bonuses, and potential endorsement deals. NBA players' salaries can vary based on factors such as experience, skill level, and contractual agreements. The specifics of Markkanen's contract, including salary details, would be outlined in his agreement with the Utah Jazz.
In addition to his salary from playing in the NBA, athletes often have opportunities to secure endorsement deals and sponsorships. These arrangements can contribute significantly to their overall income. However, the details of any specific endorsement deals that Markkanen may have are not readily available in the public domain. It's common for professional athletes to diversify their income streams through ventures like endorsements, partnerships, and investments. However, the primary and most substantial source of income for Lauri Markkanen is his earnings from his professional basketball career in the NBA.
Lauri Markkanen Age
At the age of 26, Lauri Markkanen stands as a seasoned professional in the world of basketball. With notable achievements in his career, he has demonstrated skill and resilience. From his early days in middle school to becoming an NBA star, Markkanen's journey reflects dedication and perseverance. At this stage of his career, he continues to make a significant impact on the court, showcasing his prowess with the Utah Jazz.
Lauri Markkanen Physical Attributes
Lauri Markkanen possesses imposing physical attributes, standing tall at 7 feet (2.13 meters). With a listed weight of 240 pounds (109 kilograms), he combines height and strength, making him a formidable presence on the basketball court. Markkanen's stature contributes to his effectiveness both as a scorer and a rebounder. His 7-foot frame allows him to impact the game defensively, with the ability to block shots and alter opponents' attempts.
What Happened to Lauri Markkanen?
Lauri Markkanen is sidelined for the upcoming Pelicans-Jazz game due to a left hamstring strain, marking his second consecutive absence. The Utah Jazz, currently the 12th seed in the Western Conference, will miss the contributions of the All-Star forward, impacting their lineup. Despite a challenging start to the season with a 5-11 record, the Jazz recently secured a home victory against the Pelicans with a score of 105-100. Markkanen, averaging impressive stats this season, including 23.7 points and 8.7 rebounds per game, remains a vital asset. His absence adds a challenge for the Jazz, who aim to rebound in their next game against the Memphis Grizzlies.
Lauri Markkanen Injury Update - FAQs
Lauri Markkanen is out of the lineup due to a left hamstring strain, which has led to his absence in the Pelicans-Jazz game and the previous one.
This marks the second consecutive game that Lauri Markkanen is missing due to the left hamstring strain, indicating an ongoing concern for his availability.
Markkanen's absence is significant for the Utah Jazz, as he is considered one of their best players and an All-Star contributor, impacting their offensive and defensive strategies.
Lauri Markkanen has played 15 games this season, averaging 23.7 points, 8.7 rebounds, 1.1 assists, and 1.1 steals per game. His absence poses a challenge for the Jazz, as he plays a vital role in their overall performance.
The specific timeline for Lauri Markkanen's return is not provided in the current update. Monitoring further injury reports and updates from the Utah Jazz will provide insights into when he might be back in action.