As the 2025 NBA season approaches, speculation continues about Lauri Markkanen’s future with the Utah Jazz amid ongoing trade discussions. Despite rumors linking him to a potential move, it appears increasingly probable that Markkanen will remain with Utah at least through the upcoming season, though trade proposals involving the forward persist.
Various trade scenarios have positioned Markkanen as a key asset capable of impacting the Jazz’s long-term rebuilding plans or serving as a valuable piece for a team aiming to contend in 2025. One notable trade concept comes from Bleacher Report’s Greg Swartz, who recently suggested that Markkanen would be an ideal addition for the Detroit Pistons, proposing a comprehensive deal involving several players and draft picks between the two franchises.
Proposed Trade Deal Between Utah Jazz and Detroit Pistons
In the trade framework laid out by Swartz, the Detroit Pistons would acquire forward Lauri Markkanen, while the Utah Jazz would receive a package consisting of forward Ron Holland, power forward Tobias Harris, guard Marcus Sasser, plus two unprotected first-round draft selections in 2026 and 2028.
Swartz explained the reasoning behind this proposal:
“Trading Markkanen, the team’s best player, is essentially guaranteeing Utah its 2026 pick in a draft that will feature BYU star freshman A.J. Dybantsa. The Jazz also get two unprotected first rounders from the Detroit Pistons starting next summer,”
he wrote.
“Holland was the No. 5 overall pick in the 2024 draft and has apparently put on 15 pounds of muscle this offseason…. Harris is a good veteran who could help in the locker room for a few months before Utah shops him to a contender or agrees to a buyout after the trade deadline. Sasser, 24, gives the Jazz another young guard with upside and minutes should be available after the team traded Collin Sexton to the Charlotte Hornets and agreed to a buyout with Jordan Clarkson.”
Swartz further noted the significant upside this trade could hold for Utah:
“Getting a potential franchise pillar, multiple unprotected first-round picks and future financial relief while nearly guaranteeing a top pick in the 2026 draft should be enough for Utah to agree to a Markkanen trade with the Pistons.”
Assessing Utah Jazz’s Likelihood of Accepting the Trade
Even with ongoing trade talk, it remains uncertain whether the Jazz will part ways with Lauri Markkanen anytime soon. The team seems willing to listen to offers but may hold out for a deal that provides greater value than what has been proposed so far. The package Detroit offers—comprising a promising second-year player, a veteran with an expiring contract, a young guard, and two unprotected first-round picks—has merit but may still fall short of what Utah wants for a player with All-Star caliber potential.
Markkanen’s performance over the past season was inconsistent and hampered by injuries, which hurt his trade value. However, when healthy, he remains one of the league’s stronger offensive frontcourt talents. Utah might prefer to let him rebound and regain his full form, thereby increasing his trade market value before making any moves.
Given that Markkanen recently signed a contract worth over $200 million, the Jazz may also choose to retain him to solidify their roster, rather than rush into a trade. If a deal involving him were to happen, it might be more likely to occur closer to the trade deadline or the following offseason, instead of immediately.
Although surprises are always possible in NBA front offices, fans should temper expectations about a Markkanen trade to Detroit during this offseason.
Context on Utah Jazz’s Roster Moves and Strategy
Utah’s recent roster changes include trading guard Collin Sexton to the Charlotte Hornets and agreeing to a buyout with guard Jordan Clarkson. These moves open minutes for younger players like Marcus Sasser, who could develop into important contributors for the Jazz going forward. Such adjustments reflect a broader plan to blend youth with experienced veterans like Tobias Harris, who might provide leadership in the short term.
Beyond player personnel, the Jazz are preparing for future drafts with valuable unprotected first-round picks, which could be pivotal in their rebuilding process. The 2026 draft, in particular, is expected to feature standout prospects such as BYU’s A.J. Dybantsa, signaling important opportunities for the franchise.
What This Means for the NBA Landscape
If the Jazz were to trade Markkanen for a package like the one proposed, it would mark a significant pivot in their rebuilding efforts by acquiring young talent and multiple future picks. For the Detroit Pistons, adding Markkanen could accelerate their competitiveness, giving them a proven scorer and an experienced forward to compliment their roster.
Whether such a trade comes to fruition, Utah’s cautious approach suggests they are focused on maximizing their value in any Markkanen deal. Until a highly compelling offer emerges, the forward is expected to remain a key figure in Utah’s plans heading into 2025.