Utah Jazz’s Lauri Markkanen: The All-Star Sleeper?

It is likely that the Utah Jazz will have a representative at the upcoming NBA All-Star Game in Salt Lake City. After the first fan returns, former Arizona star Lauri Markkaken is ranked seventh in the Western Conference amongst front court players. As fan votes make up 50% of the selection process, Markkanen has already received 466,988 votes. His impressive stats for the small-market team have definitely made a statement.

The 7-foot Finnish player is having a stellar first season with the Jazz, after being traded from Cleveland last summer. His field goal percentage has increased from 44.5% to 52.9%, and he has scored 28 or more points in the last five games. Although his potential game-winning three-pointer against the Kings was released too late, there is no denying his high-level performance this season.

The Jazz are currently nineteenth in the Western Conference, with a record of 19-21, and the team looks to Markkanen to help them secure the tenth and final playoff spot. It is highly likely that he will be selected to the All-Star Game, with the help of the fan votes and the support of the NBA players and media members.