Ht/Wt: 7' 0" / 230 lbs
Position: PF
Team: Arizona
Class: Freshman

2017 Draft Profile - Lauri Markkanen

Strengths: Lauri Markkanen’s size and ability to stretch the floor should translate well into the NBA, with the ability to play power forward alongside an actual center, or as a center in a small-ball lineup. Although his frame would be considered slender, he is filling out and already has shown signs of strength and physicality.

As an athlete, Markkanen is very fluid and plays well above the rim. His agility certainly works to his benefit on both ends, as he is also not scared of switching off picks and guarding smaller, quicker players.

His offensive skill set is certainly his greatest asset, coming into the NBA with a killer three-point. His release is a quick one, and he does a great job of setting up his shot off the dribble, off a screen or from a standstill position. He features great mechanics on his jump shot, which will transition well into the up-tempo NBA pace.

Markkanen also isn’t afraid of scoring in the post, with great footwork and a high IQ when scoring around the paint. He is also capable of grabbing rebounds and leading the break himself, with a speed that will be hard for other big men to match.

The efficient and unselfish player has a noteworthy basketball IQ when on the court and takes pride in playing defense and getting in the passing lanes.

Weaknesses: Although he is a seven-footer, he can struggle at times with rebounds around the rim. With an average wingspan, in comparison to his height, he doesn’t particularly excel with rebounding on any end of the floor.

Although he is able to read offenses well while on defense, his shot-blocking ability can certainly improve heading into the NBA. He will need to not only add strength to his frame, but also mature heading into the NBA so that he can take advantage of switches and smaller matchups.

Markkanen has struggled at times when guarding players who are more physical than he is, which can wear down his body throughout a game. He is vulnerable to back down centers that have an arsenal of moves in the paint, as he will need to improve his lower body strength and does fall for the occasional pump fake.

He tends to shy away from contact and should work on his aggressiveness and ability to take over a game, often being passive at times.

Lauri Markkanen Videos

Lauri Markkanen 2016-17 Preseason Scouting Video - Strengt


Lauri Markkanen 2017 Draft: Prospect Watch


Lauri Markkanen - 2016 FIBA U20 European Championship





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