The Utah Jazz’s home crowd might get manna for the all-star game.
Lauri Markkase is possibly becoming a starting five player for the NBA all-star game. AOP / USA TODAY SPORTS
Lauri Markkanen reaching the NBA all-star game is already Finnish sports history as it is, but in light of the recent twists and turns, next week’s Sunday may become even more memorable for the Utah Jazz star, who may be able to start the match on the side of the court with a good lead.
The New Orleans Pelicans were voted into the opening five of the Western Conference Zion Williams is injured and will therefore not be able to participate in the All-Star game in Salt Lake City.
The Los Angeles Lakers also have injury concerns by Anthony Davis, who would be next in line to replace the Pelicans star, based on the frontcourt voting. After them, on the list formed from the votes of fans, players and the media, there is Markkanen, who may thus be able to pass from the bench to the starting five.
The Denver Nuggets, piloting the west, will choose the starting five for Williamson’s replacement Michael Malone. The match will be played on Markkanen’s home field at the Vivint Arena in Salt Lake City on February 19.
The other four names in the opening of the West are LeBron James (Los Angeles Lakers), Nikola Jokic (Nuggets), Stephen Curry ( Golden State Warriors) and Luka Doncic (Dallas Mavericks).