Lauri Markkanen emerged as an All-Star player with the Utah Jazz. In spite of that, or maybe because of it, other teams plan to test Utah's willingness to part with Markkanen via trade.

There currently isn't any sense that the Jazz might part with the versatile 7-footer. However, at least a couple of teams are planning to make a run at Markkanen. Conversations could start as soon as next week's G League Showcase.

Markkanen's contract is for $17.3 million this season. Next season, Markkanen's deal is for $18 million, but is only guaranteed for $6 million. Presumably, any team that acquires Markkanen would eventually like to discuss extending the Finnish star.