Utah Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen appears headed for another absence as he is officially listed as questionable for Saturday’s game against Orlando while dealing with a right groin issue.
If he sits out, it would mark his second consecutive missed game, continuing the team’s cautious approach while it monitors the injury, according to Andy Larsen of The Salt Lake Tribune.
The timing is unfortunate considering how productive Markkanen has been to open the 2025-26 season.
Through 24 games, the 28-year-old has played some of the best basketball of his career, posting a personal-best 27.8 points per game while also contributing 7.0 rebounds, 2.1 assists and 1.0 steals.
His efficiency also stood out, shooting .469 from the field, .352 from three and .893 at the free throw line over 35.3 minutes per night.
With Markkanen sidelined against the Lakers on Thursday, Utah turned to second-year big man Kyle Filipowski, who stepped into the starting lineup for that loss.
If Markkanen can’t go again, Filipowski could be in line for a fresh start as the Jazz look to fill the scoring and spacing void left by their leading offensive option.
Injury notes: Markkanen, Davis, Lakers, Grizzlies, Mann https://t.co/eMjDVXO9RQ pic.twitter.com/VnXxtVcDQN
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) December 20, 2025
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