The Utah Jazz are approaching the upcoming season with a significantly altered roster after moving multiple key veterans, shifting their focus toward developing younger talent. This transformation raises a crucial question for the team’s strategy: who will be trusted with the final shot in critical moments of the game?
According to Bleacher Report analyst Greg Swartz, the player most likely to take over clutch time responsibilities for Utah is Lauri Markkanen. The Finnish forward has emerged as the go-to closer amid the Jazz’s evolving lineup, positioning himself as the player to rely on when the outcome hangs in the balance.
Markkanen Positioned as Utah’s Primary Late-Game Option
Swartz’s breakdown highlights that although Lauri Markkanen led the Jazz in scoring last season, he ranked only fifth in points scored during the fourth quarter—a surprising statistic given his role. However, several players who scored more in clutch moments, including Jordan Clarkson, Collin Sexton, and John Collins, have now left the team through trades or buyouts, leaving Markkanen as the clear front-runner.
With most of the previous clutch scorers no longer available, Markkanen stands as the best option for Utah in late-game scenarios. As Swartz observed,
“The Jazz may have no choice but to play Markkanen at the end of games, as three of the four scorers above him (Jordan Clarkson, Collin Sexton and John Collins) have all since been bought out or traded. Only Keyonte George remains.”
—Greg Swartz, Bleacher Report
Future Outlook for Markkanen and Utah’s Closing Strategy
While a trade involving Markkanen is considered inevitable by some within the organization, the current situation solidifies his role as Utah’s top closer for now. The Jazz are also looking to develop young guard Ace Bailey as a potential future leading option, but Markkanen remains the team‘s most reliable closer at present.
Swartz noted,
“A Markkanen trade at some point seems inevitable, and the organization would likely prefer Ace Bailey to take over in a starring role. For now, though, Markkanen is by far the best player on this roster and should be getting the final shot.”
—Greg Swartz, Bleacher Report
As the veteran leader on the squad, Markkanen combines experience and scoring ability to handle high-pressure situations, even if he is not known as an elite isolation scorer. His efficiency and health will be key factors in his success when given the ball in decisive moments.
Statistical Context Surrounding Markkanen’s Role
Markkanen’s numbers last season showed some decline compared to previous years, averaging a career-low 19.0 points per game, along with his lowest field goal percentage at 42.3%. His limited availability, playing only 47 games, also contributed to inconsistencies, exacerbated by Utah’s apparent tanking strategy early in the campaign.
With the Jazz less focused on rebuilding through the draft lottery this season, there is an opportunity for Markkanen to rebound and demonstrate his scoring capabilities more consistently. This fresh context could allow him to serve as a dependable closer without the pressure of sacrificing wins for positioning.
The Significance of Markkanen’s Role in Utah’s New Era
As the Utah Jazz transition into a younger, retooled team, finding a trusted closer is vital for competitiveness. Lauri Markkanen’s emergence not only fills this critical role but also provides the team with a familiar and steady option in tight games. His performance will likely influence Utah’s ability to win close contests while they cultivate new talent like Ace Bailey.
Looking ahead, the Jazz’s strategy will balance Markkanen’s leadership with the growth of their youthful roster, shaping the team’s identity in this rebuilding phase. Fans and analysts alike will monitor how effectively Markkanen embraces his role as Utah’s clutch-time scorer throughout the season.