One of the most talked about potential trades this offseason, Lauri Markkanen, has turned out to be a passing ball, with one or another team popping up after intervals, interested in the 27-year-old. At first, it was Golden State Warriors, but Danny Ainge was leaving Markkanen for nothing less than his initial demands. He reportedly wanted Jonathan Kuminga, Brandin Podziemski, and Moses Moody, along with multiple first-round picks. But it was too much for the Dubs to sacrifice, considering their immediate quest for an NBA championship, and the heartbreaking departure of Klay Thompson.

A couple of days ago, Forbes’ NBA insider Evan Sidery cited Bleacher Report’s Eric Pincus’ proposed draft, where he reaffirmed that the Warriors would have to let go of their beloved Brandin Podziemski if they want to land a deal with the Utah Jazz and Danny Ainge for Lauri Markkanen. It was expected that Utah would remain firm on its stance since it has the ability to resign the Finnish player after August 6 because of cap space of more than $30 million, offering Markkanen a maximum extension starting from 2025.

However, the stalemate might not last for long as a third player, and ex-NBA All-Star, has entered the trade talks of Lauri Markkanen, and it seems to be just what Utah Jazz needs right now. From what looks like a win-now scenario, Evan Sidery reported, as per Christian Clark of NOLANews, that the Jazz is interested in Brandon Ingram and talks with the New Orleans Pelicans!

It will be a more plausible move for Danny Ainge and the Jazz’s front office since the players that they are demanding from the Warriors are too precious to lose, and the Jazz are in the phase of rebuilding too. So if they can get access to a star player who will have an immediate impact on their league performance, why not pair Brandon Ingram with their star forward/center Lauri Markkanen, if he signs the upcoming extension? But does that really make sense? Let’s put things into perspective.

How can Brandon Ingram’s trade uplift Lauri Markkanen and Co.’s performance?

Lauri Markkanen is an efficient asset, with a stat line of scoring above 23 points every game alongside more than 8 rebounds, and 2 assists last season, similar to that of the biggest NBA stars. However, he is not that great of a playmaker who can encourage his teammates to score hoops while being a background presence and assisting. Markkanen has already got his hands full from defending and scoring. On the other hand, Ingram can complement the needs of Markkanen and the Utah Jazz with his playmaking skills.

Coming off a solid season, Ingram recorded 20.8 points alongside just above 5 rebounds and 5.7 assists. His three-point shooting percentage last season was 35.5%, along with 49.2% from the field.

He is someone who can draw attention to himself away from the paint, creating opportunities and space for the rest of the players. Moreover, he will also have the tactic up his sleeve to shoot 3s whenever he gets the ball or if defenders are still blocking Lauri, the lead scorer.

On both ends, it will be a great boost for the Utah Jazz, who are solely relying on Lauri Markkanen’s skills for now. On top of that, the potential future of Jazz’s core consists of draftees Cody Williams, Walker Kessler, Keyonte George, and a few more.

With young powerhouses set to lead the charge soon, the Utah Jazz can turn the tables next season with a Brandon Ingram trade. Will Danny Ainge officiate the Lauri trade or focus on getting better while standing the test of time? Let us know in the comments.

Before you go, do not forget to check out this crossover between BG12 and Georgia Bulldogs star Silas Demary Jr.