With only a couple of games left in the season, it’s unlikely that the Utah Jazz will be able to make the playoffs again this year. While Lauri Markkanen’s production has dipped a bit over the past couple of years, it’s undeniable that he’s still the team’s best player throughout the season.
The Finnisher is doing everything he could to at least end the season on a high note, but his efforts weren’t enough to help his Jazz end their terrible run of form. Despite his heroics, the team still fell to the Mavericks in what turned out to be a comfortable game for the visitors.
Lauri Markkanen shined as the Utah Jazz faltered against the Dallas Mavericks
The Jazz never took the lead in any of the four quarters of their late-season duel against the Mavericks. It was clear even to the most casual spectator that the sheer quality of the Dallas roster was too much for the hosts.
However, Markkanen did everything in his power to make sure his team had a fighting chance. His 34 points on 10-for-19 shooting was quite a sight to behold for fans who were there.
Moreover, there were some positives on the defensive front, especially when it came to Taylor Hendricks. SLC Dunk’s James Hansen wrote about his defensive performance against Luka Doncic:
Taylor Hendricks, who struggled shooting the ball, did a great job defending Luka Doncic all night. His ability to guard multiple positions is shining and shows that he’ll be a valuable player for years for Utah. They just need that consistency with the shooting, but that will come with time.
With the Jazz currently on a six-game losing streak, it’s almost certain that they’ll miss the postseason. While they have a chance to win against the San Antonio Spurs, they still have to face the Los Angeles Clippers, Denver Nuggets, Golden State Warriors, and Houston Rockets.
With all of these teams firing in all cylinders, their hopes of making the postseason are pretty much dashed.
Why are the Jazz struggling despite Markkanen’s impressive efforts?
There are plenty of reasons why the Utah Jazz are struggling to find their form despite Markkanen doing absolutely everything to keep them afloat. The 2023 MIP winner is averaging 23.2 PPG, 8.2 RPG, and 2.0 APG on 48%/40%/90% shooting splits this season.
The biggest reason is probably the lack of a supporting cast. While Jordan Clarkson has been solid, his 17.1 PPG suggests that he’s more of a third option than a reliable sidekick. Colin Sexton also isn’t performing up to standards.
Their defense is also a problem. While Walker Kessler has been a reliable interior defender with his 2.5 blocks per game, there are no other reliable interior anchors within the team. Moreover, Kris Dunn is their most reliable pickpocket, which says a lot about their ability to interrupt passing lanes.
It’s uncertain what the Jazz need to finally make the jump. However, they need to do it fast before Markkanen wants out of Salt Lake City.
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