Lauri Markkanen and his Utah Jazz might not have been able to make it to the playoffs this year but no one can deny that he had a truly incredible season.
The stunning star just won the league’s Most Improved Player award and it’s clear why when you take a look at his numbers.
As noted by BallMuse, Markkanen improved his game in nearly every single way.
When compared to last season, he was up 10.8 in points per game, 2.9 in rebounds per game, 0.6 in assists per game, and 5.4 in field goal percentage.
He also improved his three-point shooting, blocks per game, and just about every other conceivable metric measured.
Lauri Markkanen increases:
PPG — +10.8 From Last Season
RPG — +2.9 From Last Season
APG — +0.6 From Last Season
BPG — +0.1 From Last Season
FG% — +5.4 From Last Season
3P% — +3.3 From Last Season
FT% — +0.7 From Last Season
TS% — +5.8 From Last SeasonMIP! pic.twitter.com/mNFjQopaX7
— BallMuse (@BallMuse23) April 24, 2023
It was quite remarkable to watch Markkanen perform this year.
The Finnish star was enjoying his first season with the Jazz after being sent over from the Cleveland Cavaliers.
With his average of 25.6 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 1.9 assists, Markkanen became one of the breakout stars of the season and earned his first All-Star selection.
He also led the Jazz to the top of the Western Conference – at least for a while.
For a moment, it seemed like the Jazz could truly be playoff contenders.
But they eventually slid towards the bottom of the standings, although fans are still excited for the future of the team.
Because of Markkanen and other strong, young players signed to the Jazz, it feels like the next few years could be very big for the team.
That is especially true if Markkanen’s game continues to improve.
2022-23 was a huge year for the forward and people are hopeful he can keep playing at this level.
In fact, some Jazz fans believe he can get even better.
NEXT:
Fans React To Today’s Lauri Markkanen Announcement
