Utah Jazz's Lauri Markkanen Likely Out For Season With Shoulder Injury

Photo: Instagram/Lauri Markkanen

Utah Jazz fans received some disheartening news on Saturday night as the team announced an update on the injury status of their forward, Lauri Markkanen. 

The Finnish star, who has been dealing with intermittent appearances due to injury in recent weeks, faces a more prolonged absence after the latest setback.

Markkanen has been diagnosed with a shoulder impingement, a condition that will see him sidelined for at least two weeks, according to the team's official statement. This injury comes on the heels of discomfort Markkanen experienced in his right shoulder following the March 27 game against the San Antonio Spurs.

Photo: Instagram/Lauri Markkanen

The Jazz organization revealed via Twitter/X that an MRI conducted on Friday confirmed the re-aggravation of Markkanen's previous right shoulder issue. As a result, the forward will undergo a period of rest and rehabilitation before being re-evaluated in two weeks' time.

The timing of Markkanen's injury is particularly unfortunate for the Utah Jazz, who have struggled since the All-Star Break. With a record of 3-15 in their last 18 games and eliminated from postseason contention, the team's focus has shifted towards evaluating talent for the upcoming draft.


Markkanen's absence from the court will undoubtedly be felt by the Jazz, especially considering his contributions throughout the 2023-24 season. The 23-year-old has been a key performer for Utah, averaging 23.2 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game with impressive shooting splits of 48.0% from the field, 39.9% from three-point range, and 89.9% from the free-throw line.

With the two-week timeline for Markkanen's recovery aligning closely with the conclusion of the regular season, there's speculation that the forward could be shut down early to prioritize his long-term health. This decision would make sense given the Jazz's current situation and their desire to avoid further complications for Markkanen.

In the meantime, the Jazz will have to navigate through their remaining games without the services of their star forward. Their next challenge comes on Easter Sunday as they face the Sacramento Kings, hoping to snap their eight-game losing streak and salvage some positivity amidst a challenging stretch.

Read Next: Jalen Brunson's Historic 61-Point Night Falls Short Against Victor Wembanyama's Spurs In Overtime Thriller

Source: Sports Illustrated 

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