The NBA, much like a reality television program, thrives off drama. Few aspects of basketball create more of it than trade rumors, speculation, and gossip. One player who should be front and center of that in 2025-26 is former Cleveland Cavaliers forward Lauri Markkanen.
Cleveland dealt Markkanen away as a part of the package that brought Donovan Mitchell to the Cavaliers. When the former lottery pick got an opportunity to be in a starring role for the Utah Jazz, Markkanen thrived.
The Finnish forward finally showcased his full potential in his first season with the Jazz, emerging as an All-Star caliber talent.