Utah Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen is facing a significant setback, with an MRI on Thursday revealing symptomatic hip impingement, accompanied by inflammation and a bone bruise. Sources close to ESPN indicated that Markkanen will be reevaluated in two weeks following this diagnosis. Further complicating matters, Markkanen also sustained a twisted right ankle during practice on Wednesday, though subsequent tests for this injury returned clean.

Markkanen's injury marks the latest in a series of unfortunate events for the Jazz, who have been plagued by a wave of season-ending injuries in the past fortnight. Forwards Jaren Jackson Jr. (knee) and Jusuf Nurkic (nose), along with guard Vince Williams Jr. (knee), have all been sidelined for the remainder of the season. Additionally, guard Keyonte George was absent from Thursday night's game against the New Orleans Pelicans, where the Jazz suffered a 129-118 loss, due to a right ankle sprain.

These injuries come at a critical time for the Utah Jazz, who currently hold an 18-41 record, placing them as the third-worst team in the Western Conference. Lauri Markkanen, a nine-year veteran, has been a standout performer for the team this season, leading them with an impressive average of 26.7 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 2.1 assists.