The Utah Jazz have been in full tank mode lately, regularly pulling their starters down during games and most recently having Jaren Jackson Jr. out for the rest of the season due to injury. Now, as the season enters its home stretch, the team has received tough news regarding an injury to its best player, Lauri Markkanen.
"Utah Jazz star Lauri Markkanen could be out for a while after suffering a concussion in practice Wednesday," Kevin Reynolds of The Salt Lake Tribune reported.
According to a source familiar with the situation, Markkanen is being evaluated for right ankle and hip injuries, and will undergo an MRI to determine the extent of the ailments.
The news comes amid allegations that the Jazz are intentionally trying to lose games in order to gain a higher pick in the upcoming NBA Draft, which many predict will be loaded with high-end talent. Recently, the NBA issued a hefty fine against Utah's ownership for their blatant tanking efforts, and given Utah's history, some fans may be skeptical about this latest injury update regarding Markkanen.
This season, Markkanen is averaging nearly 27 points per game and that's part of the Jazz's vision for the long term, as they hope to pair him and Jackson Jr. with another blue-chip prospect in the upcoming draft.
In any case, the Jazz next face off at home against the New Orleans Pelicans on Thursday evening. Tipoff from the Delta Center is scheduled for 9:00 pm ET.
