LeBron James not surprised by Lauri Markkanen’s rapid ascent with Jazz, says ‘talent has always been there’

The Final day of All-Star Weekend is here, and ends with the 72nd NBA All-Star You can play the game Sunday night.

Jazz Forward Lauri Markkanen First Utah Player to Start an All-Star Game since Karl Malone 1989 He will be the team’s lone representative in the NBA showcase.

Before The G, the game tips League Next Man Up The game will be held at 1 p.m. MST in the Huntsman Center. The NBA All-Star Draft will take place at 5:30 PM MT, before the game.

Time For All-Star Spiel: 6:30 p.m. MT

TelevisionTNT

Streaming: Sling TV, fuboTV

Here These are some of the latest news, notes and sound from All-Star Weekend throughout the day.

LeBron James talks Lauri MarkkanenAnd his connection to the Jazz Star

The NBA’s all-time leading scorer LeBron James He shared his thoughts on the Jazz’s first-time All-Star Lauri Markkanen. According To James, Markkanen’s quick rise this year doesn’t come as a surprise to him.

“I think it is all about more and more opportunity,” James said. “The talent has always been there since he came from Arizona. He got drafted by the Bulls and you saw the talent. Then he went to Cleveland and you saw the talent there as well. Now he is the centerpiece and the focal point here in Utah. Now he is able to show not only his talent, but showcase it even more because they run a lot through him. He is able to do it more often.”

Markkanen This is his sixth year in league play, and his best season so far. He He averages 24.9 points per match, an increase of his career-average 16.9. He Is shooting more than 40% from the three point line and more than 50% from the two. He Is close to a 50-40-90 year.

For JamesYou may also find a little extra connection.

“I’ve always liked him because he has worn LeBron shoes,” James said. “He has always been cool with me.”