Jazz staying course as offers for Lauri Markkanen, Walker Kessler likely to roll in

Utah’s position in the standings is starting to raise eyebrows around the league.

As Michael Scotto of HoopsHype notes, the Jazz would owe their 2026 first-round pick to Oklahoma City if it lands outside the top eight. And if the season ended today, Utah’s 10–15 record would slot that pick right in the danger zone.

That reality has rival executives wondering whether the Jazz front office could get more active ahead of the trade deadline, potentially weakening the roster in the short term to protect that selection.

For now, though, Utah continues to send a consistent message.

According to Scotto, the Jazz still intend to build around Lauri Markkanen, despite ongoing trade interest in the All-Star forward. In recent years, opposing executives have viewed teams like Detroit, San Antonio and Memphis as potential suitors if Markkanen were ever made available, but there has been no indication Utah is ready to go down that road.

Looking ahead, the Jazz appear focused on flexibility rather than a teardown. Scotto reports the team plans to use its 2026 cap room to improve the roster, either through free agency or trades, rather than committing to a full reset.

Walker Kessler also remains a key part of the picture. Sources tell HoopsHype that Utah recently turned down a Lakers trade offer for Kessler that was similar to the package Los Angeles sent for Mark Williams. The Jazz could carry a cap hold of roughly $14.6 million for Kessler next summer, then exceed the cap to re-sign him at a higher starting salary if they choose.

In short, Utah may be walking a fine line. The pick matters. But so does staying the course.