Lauri Markkanen Scores 51, Leads Jazz to Thrilling OT Win

BREAKING: Lauri Markkanen has just delivered a stunning performance, scoring a career-high 51 points as the Utah Jazz edged out the Phoenix Suns 138-134 in overtime on Monday night in Salt Lake City. This incredible feat makes Markkanen the first Jazz player to score over 50 points in a regular-season game since Karl Malone in 1998.

Markkanen played a pivotal role in the game, especially after the Jazz nearly squandered a seven-point lead in the final 19 seconds of regulation. He showcased his skill by not only scoring seven points in overtime but also contributing 14 rebounds to the team’s effort. His flawless performance at the free-throw line—making all 17 attempts—ties the Jazz record for the most free throws made without a miss.

This remarkable achievement also set a new benchmark for the Jazz, making Markkanen the first player in franchise history to record 50 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 made 3-pointers in a single game. His previous career record of 49 points was set earlier this year on January 5, 2023.

The Jazz, now standing at 2-1, are defying expectations after being projected to be near the bottom of the NBA standings. They are just a rebound away from being undefeated, with their only loss being a close 105-104 defeat against Sacramento. Meanwhile, the Suns have now dropped three consecutive games, bringing their record to 1-3.

In a tense game, Keyonte George also shone, contributing 26 points and 10 assists, while Walker Kessler added 25 points, 11 rebounds, and four blocks. The Jazz had led for most of the match, but a dramatic finish saw the Suns rally back, with Devin Booker scoring 24 of his 34 points after halftime. Booker’s late-game heroics included two crucial 3-pointers that helped force overtime.

The game reached a critical juncture when George made a running bank shot with 40 seconds left in overtime to break a tie. Markkanen then sealed the victory with two free throws just 1.9 seconds before the final buzzer.

As the Jazz continue their surprising start to the season, fans are left buzzing about Markkanen’s historic performance, which ended a staggering 27 years and 203 days since the last 50-point game for the franchise, marking the fourth-longest gap in NBA history.

As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Markkanen and the Jazz as they look to build on this momentum and challenge expectations. Stay tuned for more updates on their journey!