Rob Gray-Imagn Images

Jazz Announce Lauri Markkanen News Before Lakers Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated Dec 18, 2025 6:41 AM ET

The Utah Jazz are looking to make it three wins in a row on Thursday when they face LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers in a home game at Delta Center. The Jazz, however, are potentially going to be without star forward Lauri Markkanen, who is currently dealing with a groin issue.

The Jazz are on a high right now after back-to-back wins over the Memphis Grizzlies and the Dallas Mavericks. Utah is currently 10-15 on the season and is aiming to reach the .500 mark as the calendar year comes to a close. They face a tough test against the 18-7 Lakers, though, especially if Markkanen is unable to go.

Utah Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen drives with the ball against the Oklahoma City Thunder.© Rob Gray-Imagn Images

Markkanen is having a big year now that he’s in his fourth season with the Jazz. In 24 games played thus far, the All-Star power forward has averaged 27.8 points on 46.9% shooting, 7.0 rebounds, 2.1 assists and 1.0 steals in 35.3 minutes per contest. Markkanen is also knocking down 2.9 triples per game on a 35.2% clip.

The Jazz, however, could elect to give their star a night off on Thursday. The team announced on Wednesday via the official injury report that Markkanen is questionable to play due to right groin injury management. The issue does not seem serious, and Markkanen’s potential absence may be for rest purposes.

Markkanen has missed just one game so far. He sat out on Friday due to an illness, but he is now at risk of being sidelined for a second time in four games.

Taylor Hendricks and Kyle Anderson are the leading candidates for extended minutes if Markkanen is ruled out. If he is unable to suit up against the Lakers, Markkanen’s next chance to play would be on Saturday against the Orlando Magic.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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