Lauri Markkanen

Determined to both defend the homecourt and help the Utah Jazz maintain their pristine play during the NBA’s competitive In-Season Tournament, Lauri Markkanen concluded that it was time to up his ante on the less glamorous side of the court. Settling into position to help his teammate contain the Phoenix Suns’ All-Star scorer, the league’s reigning Most Improved Player of the Year shifts into rim protector mode, meeting the dunk attempt at the summit for an assertive block, propelling a teammate’s fastbreak score in the process. Holding their own against the star-studded Suns, the Jazz came up one bucket shy of a win on November 17, 2023, but Markkanen showcased mettle and grit on both ends of the floor, totaling 21 points, two rebounds, one steal, and a pair of blocks.