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2017 Orlando Magic Draft Preview: Who is Lauri Markkanen?

By Sam Skubala

Mar 23, 2017; San Jose, CA, USA; Arizona Wildcats forward Lauri Markkanen (10) drives the ball past Xavier Musketeers forward Tyrique Jones (0) during the second period in the semifinals of the West Regional of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Xavier Musketeers defeated the Arizona Wildcats 73-71. Mandatory Credit: Stan Szeto-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 23, 2017; San Jose, CA, USA; Arizona Wildcats forward Lauri Markkanen (10) drives the ball past Xavier Musketeers forward Tyrique Jones (0) during the second period in the semifinals of the West Regional of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Xavier Musketeers defeated the Arizona Wildcats 73-71. Mandatory Credit: Stan Szeto-USA TODAY Sports /
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Final Word

There are many attractive qualities about Lauri Markkanen’s play. His sweet-looking stroke and his laser-accurate shot would already make him one of the NBA’s elite big-man shooters. His ability to stretch the floor from the 4 or 5 spot would do wonders for teams such as the Orlando Magic.

Yet, there are simply too many downsides for a team like the Magic to risk a high pick on him. He is slow-footed on defense, can neither guard the pick-and-roll nor protect the rim. And he is easily taken apart on the defensive end by both small-ball power forwards and big-man centers alike.

A lack of rebounding, and any semblance of an interior game severely limit Markkanen’s NBA potential — and taken with his defensive struggles, there is a lot to be concerned about.

Another concern is what position the 7-footer could play once in the NBA. He struggles to keep up with small-ball 4s due to his lack of agility on the defensive end. Yet he also lacks the strength, length and physical tools to adequately guard centers.

There are many concerns about Lauri Markkanen heading into the NBA Draft. He is a poor defender and rebounder, whose offensive game is largely limited to his shooting.

Next: 2017 Orlando Magic Draft Preview: Who is Ike Anigbogu?

That said, although he is by no means the next Kristaps Porzingis, if he is used and developed correctly, he could easily be one of the best big-man shooters of his generation.