SOURCE SPORTS: Anthony Edwards Delivers Dunk of the Year Candidate in Win Over Jazz

Anthony Edwards Delivers Dunk of the Year Candidate in Win Over Jazz

Anthony Edwards showcased his prowess in a pivotal game, dropping 32 points, grabbing seven boards, and dishing out eight assists, propelling the Wolves to a 114-104 triumph over the Jazz.

The win is important, but his dunk over Jazz forward John Collins will be up and down your timeline all day.

“It gives me chills, man, because I always dreamed of dunking on somebody like that,” Edwards said.

However, Edwards’ remarkable plays come with a cost: He sustained injuries. Despite hitting his head on the rim during a block against the Pacers and dislocating his finger in the dunk over John Collins, Edwards’ resilience shone through.

With this win, the Wolves draw level with the Nuggets at 47-21, seizing the No. 2 spot in the West via tiebreaker, having won their season series 1-0. The Nuggets and Wolves face off tonight (March 19).

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Lauri Markkanen Net Worth 2024: What Is The NBA Star Worth?

Lauri Markkanen’s ascent in the world of professional basketball is a story of talent, determination, and international success. Hailing from Finland, Markkanen has established himself as a formidable player in the NBA, known for his sharpshooting skills and versatility on the court. By 2024, his achievements in basketball, coupled with endorsements and smart financial choices, have led to a net worth of $12 million, according to CAknowledge. This showcases his successful integration into the upper echelons of the sport.

From Helsinki To Hoops High: Markkanen’s Career Highlights

Lauri Markkanen
SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH – MARCH 22: Lauri Markkanen #23 of the Utah Jazz dunks over. Cam Reddish #5 of the Portland Trail Blazers during the first half at Vivint Arena on. March 22, 2023 in Salt Lake City, Utah. (Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images)

Lauri Markkanen’s basketball journey began in Finland, where he honed his skills and showed early promise. Moving to the United States to play college basketball at the University of Arizona marked a significant step in his career. It further highlighted his ambition and talent. Additionally, in the NBA, Markkanen quickly made a name for himself with the Chicago Bulls. This impressed fans and analysts with his scoring ability and basketball IQ. His ability to perform consistently, combined with his adaptability to various team dynamics, has made him a valuable player and a fan favorite.

Recognition & Evolution: Markkanen’s Growing Legacy

Lauri Markkanen
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JANUARY 23: Lauri Markkanen #23 of the Utah Jazz dribbles the ball down court during the first quarter of an NBA game against the New Orleans Pelicans at Smoothie King Center on January 23, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images)

Throughout his career in the NBA, Lauri Markkanen has garnered recognition for his impressive performances and contributions to his teams. His standout moments on the court have not only led to personal accolades but have also reinforced his status as a key player in the league. Beyond individual achievements, Markkanen’s influence extends to inspiring young basketball players in Finland, showcasing the potential for success on the global stage.

Beyond The Backboard: Markkanen’s Personal Life & Interests

Lauri Markkanen
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – JANUARY 6: Lauri Markkanen #23 of the Utah Jazz dunks over Nicolas Batum #40 of the Philadelphia 76ers during the first half of an NBA game at the Wells Fargo Center on January 6, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images)

Off the court, Lauri Markkanen’s life reflects his commitment to personal development and his Finnish roots. His involvement in initiatives that promote sports and healthy lifestyles, especially among youth in his home country, highlights his dedication to giving back. Markkanen’s journey, from a promising talent in Finland to achieving success in the NBA, is a narrative of ambition, hard work, and the importance of maintaining a connection to one’s heritage.

Lauri Markkanen’s rise to a net worth of $12 million in 2024 is a testament to his skill and dedication as a professional basketball player. His journey, marked by significant achievements in the NBA and a commitment to his personal and national identity, is complemented by his efforts to influence positively and inspire both on and off the court.

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Utah Jazz Stop Selling Bizarre Jumpman Shirt After Fan Backlash

The Utah Jazz has confirmed that they will no longer sell a shirt that appeared to show Michael Jordan dunking over the team name. The shirt was part of a minimalistic overhaul of the team identity last season driven by Nike and the Jordan Brand. However, the shirt riled up Jazz fans after its discovery given the painful memories of the two 90s Finals the Malone-Stockton Jazz lost to Jordan’s Bulls. The design can be found leaguewide, with each team having their own variation of the shirt. However, it’s one that unfortunately will get very little love amongst the Jazz faithful.

The Jazz lost back-to-back Finals against Jordan’s Bulls in 1997 and 1998. Jordan averaged 32.3 points per game in 1997 (4-2 Bulls) and 33.5 points per game in 1998 (4-2 Bulls). The two-season stretch also included perhaps Jordan’s most iconic game – Game 5 of the ’97 Finals, aka “The Flu Game”. Jordan put up 38 points despite being visibly ill. In subsequent years, Jordan has floated the idea that he was poisoned by a Jazz-supporting pizzeria the night before. Regardless, it’s a particularly painful stretch of Jazz history that is not best served by a minimalist t-shirt celebrating Jordan.

Read More: Kevin Porter Jr. Traded And Waived As Girlfriend Denies Assault Took Place

Jazz Quietly Confident About 2023-24

The upcoming NBA season is a chance for the Jazz to bounce back after a down year in 2022/23. The Jazz finished 37-45 amid something of a roster rebuild, having traded away Rudy Gobert and Donovan Mitchell. This is now Lauri Markkanen’s team. The Jazz have three rookies on the roster after making three picks in the first round of this year’s NBA draft. If everyone takes the developmental steps they need to, the Jazz could be a Play-In team this year.

However, they have the misfortune of being in the Western Conference. That means regular meetings with the defending champion Nuggets and the conference superteams in the Suns and Warriors. Furthermore, teams like the Lakers and Grizzlies will be eager to keep up their forward momentum. Despite fans, have are quietly confident that the team is finally in a place to truly move on from the losses of Gobert and Mitchell.

Read More: Michael Jordan Makes Appearance At Usher Show, Tiffany Haddish Dances In Front Of Him: Watch

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John Collins Traded To Utah Jazz

The NBA off-season wasted little time in starting things off with a bang. The Phoenix Suns made a monster move to acquire Bradley Beal from the Washington Wizards. The deal also sent future Hall of Famer Chris Paul to Washington, where he was then shipped to Golden State. The move has been a much talked about decision. The move has many believing the Suns are now the top team in the Western Conference. On Monday, another massive trade was announced.

Atlanta Hawks forward John Collins has been traded to the Utah Jazz for Rudy Gay. According to NBA insider Adrian Wojnarowski, the Hawks have been looking to unload the three-year $78 million-dollar contract held by Collins. It looks as though the team has found the right suitor with the Jazz. The Hawks move is to bring flexibility to how they can structure the roster around their young superstar Trae Young. Collins has been discussed as a potential member of a trade from Atlanta since the last off-season. However, it now seems that Collins has found a new home.

Read More: Bradley Beal Trade Roasted By NBA Twitter

John Collins Brings Talents To Utah

Collins has spent the first six seasons of his NBA career in Atlanta. At one time, it seemed that the Hawks would be building their franchise around the young duo of Collins and Young. However, now Collins will be looking for a fresh start with another young team in Utah. The Jazz is in the middle of a massive rebuild after shipping stars Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert off before the start of last season. Collins could be a perfect addition to what ownership is trying to build in Utah.

In his short 6 years in the league, Collins has averaged 15 points and 8 rebounds per game. Atlanta made the postseason this past year. However, the team fell in the first round to the Boston Celtics. Undoubtedly the move will free up cap space for the Hawks to create a deeper rotation. Do you believe the Hawks made the right move in dealing John Collins? What other moves should the team think about when sculpting their roster for next season? Let us know in the comment section. For the latest news in sports, keep it right here with HNHH.

Read More: Trae Young Rumored To Be On Lakers’ Radar

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Russell Westbrook Talking With These Teams

Russell Westbrook is one of the most talked about point guards in the entire NBA. Unfortunately for Westbrook, this isn’t always for the best reasons. During his last few years with the Lakers, he has not been great. Overall, there is this narrative surrounding him that is fairly negative. People aren’t rocking with him the way they used to, and no one knows whether he can still be effective in the league. Subsequently, his future is truly up in the air.

As it stands, Westbrook is playing for the Utah Jazz. For now, however, the team is simply sitting him until further notice. While the team has stated that they could very well keep him, they would rather buy him out, allowing him to go as he pleases. Although, some reporters like Shams Charania believe there is no market for Russ. That said, it is clear that some teams are actually very interested.

Russell Westbrook Future

Russell Westbrook #0 of the Los Angeles Lakers during the game against the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on February 02, 2023 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)

According to Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN, Russ is currently engaged in conversations with four teams. These squads are the Los Angeles Clippers, Miami Heat, Chicago Bulls, and even the Washington Wizards. Overall, there is only one real title contender here, and that’s the Clippers. Although, there is no real guarantee that this Clippers team goes anywhere considering their injury history. Either way, players like Paul George want to see Russ join the roster, which is a point in the point guard’s favor. No matter what, it is clear that this is going to be an interesting few weeks for Westbrook.

Hopefully, he is able to find an NBA home that truly wants him. We’re sure these past few weeks have been difficult for him and his family. It is clear that Russ can still play at a high level. Overall, he just needs a chance to showcase that. Having said this, let us know where you think Russ should play next, in the comments down below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for more news and updates from the NBA.

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Russell Westbrook Buyout Likely, New Suitor Emerges

Russell Westbrook has had a very difficult time since being traded to the Los Angeles Lakers. Overall, the Lakers weren’t exactly the best fit for him. LeBron James is a ball-dominant player and he didn’t mesh well with Russ. Consequently, Russ was sent to the bench by Darvin Ham and became a sixth-man for the team. While this seemed to work out at first, it became clear that the team could use some massive upgrades, altogether. Subsequently, this led to trade talks, and on Wednesday night, a deal finally got done.

Now, Westbrook is a member of the Utah Jazz. Additionally, the Lakers have gotten back players like Jarred Vanderbilt, Malik Beasley, and D’Angelo Russell. Overall, this is a great trade for the Lakers. Meanwhile, the Jazz have some big decisions to make. Although, it has been made clear by numerous reporters that the goal is to actually just buy out Russell Westbrook’s contract. This would ultimately make him a free agent who could sign with anyone heading into the final stretch of the season.

Russell Westbrook Outlook

There have been numerous questions surrounding what kind of market is out there for Russell Westbrook right now. However, it seems like the market is actually a lot bigger than some are giving credit for. In fact, according to Chris Haynes of Bleacher Report, the Los Angeles Clippers have a ton of interest in signing Westbrook. They are on the verge of letting go of John Wall, so this would make sense. Moreover, the Chicago Bulls are also reportedly in on Westbrook. Needless to say, the veteran point guard is experiencing a lot of movement right now.

Today is a very big day for the NBA. Of course, this is because it is officially the trade deadline. Overall, the trade deadline can bring about some blockbuster moves. Many of these moves have already happened, as guys like Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant have been traded. That said, you can expect plenty more trades today. Let us know which trades you want to see, in the comments below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for more news from the NBA world.

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Russell Westbrook Sent To Jazz In Blockbuster Move

If you are a fan of the Los Angeles Lakers, it has become clear that Russell Westbrook isn’t cut out for the team. Overall, he has been a shell of himself these last couple of seasons. He has been missing some incredibly easy shots, all while causing numerous turnovers. As a whole, he just hasn’t been cutting it and fans have been getting very annoyed. Consequently, there have been all sorts of trade discussions involving Westbrook. Unfortunately, his value has been severely diminished and there was skepticism that the Lakers would find a trade partner.

A few days ago, the purple and gold were fairly confident that they would find a trade partner in the Brooklyn Nets. This would ultimately lead to Kyrie Irving, however, the Nets made it clear that they didn’t care for the Lakers’ deal. Subsequently, the Lakers had to go and search for new partners. Last night, it was reported that they officially found a suitor for Westbrook. According to Adrian Wojnarowski, the Lakers got back a pretty good haul that promises to make them a whole lot better.

Russell Westbrook Deal

As you can see in the tweet above, the Lakers are going to be adding D’Angelo Russell, Malik Beasley, and Jarred Vanderbilt to the roster. Moreover, the Utah Jazz will get Russell Westbrook and the Lakers’ 2027 first-round pick. Finally, the Minnesota Timberwolves will get Mike Conley. When you look at the breakdown, it becomes apparent that the Lakers won this trade fairly easily. The Jazz are likely going to buy out Westbrook’s contract, while the T-Wolves gave up a lot to get a little back. Overall, you should be very happy right now if you are a fan of the Lakers.

Moving forward, it will be very interesting to see how this plays out. The Lakers need to start winning some games here, or they will miss the playoffs again. Consequently, they could anger LeBron James further, which would then just lead to more trades and turmoil. Let us know what you think of this Russell Westbrook move, in the comments below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for updates from around the sports world.

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Travis Scott and Cactus Jack Partners with Smith Entertainment Group for NBA All-Star Weekend

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The parent company of the Utah Jazz, Smith Entertainment Group, has teamed up with Cactus Jack, the record label and clothing line of multi-platinum hip-hop artist Travis Scott, to create a series of exciting events that will enhance the viewing experience for fans converging on downtown Salt Lake City for NBA All-Star 2023. Cactus Jack will organize a number of activations over the course of the partnership’s weekend-long run, giving residents and visitors alike more chances to take in the excitement that only a big event like All-Star weekend could offer.

The Depot will host a series of private concerts featuring great acts chosen by Travis. On Friday, Feb. 17, Don Toliver and Sheck Wes will perform, and further acts that will headline the venue on Saturday, February, will be announced soon. The DJ for the Concert Series is Chase B. At 8 o’clock, both concerts are set to start. Starting on Friday, Feb. 3, tickets for the Cactus Jack Concert Series will be available here for $150 per ticket, per night. There is a cap of 1,200 visitors per evening.

Motivated by his passion for the sport, Travis has collaborated with professional snowboarder and entrepreneur Jeremy Jones to assemble an impressive lineup of competitors for this two-day snowboarding contest, including friends of Travis Jake Canter and Zeb Powell. Prior to the professionals taking to the rails for the finals on Saturday, Feb. 18 from 3-6pm, amateurs will compete on Friday, Feb. 17 from 2 to 5 pm. Travis will watch the competition on Saturday and support the winners. Grit Rail Jam, presented by the Utah Sports Commission, Utah Jazz, and Cactus Jack, is free and accessible to the public. It takes place at Olympic Legacy Plaza at The Gateway.

Travis will present exclusive product drops from the Cactus Jack collection in collaboration with Mitchell and Ness as part of The Shop Salt Lake City, a cutting-edge pop-up retail activation that will be housed at The Gateway and accessible to the general public from Thursday, Feb. 16 through Sunday, Feb. 19. New merchandise will be released every day. The public can visit the Cactus Jack pop-up store at 16 N. Rio Grande from Thursday, Feb.16 through Saturday, Feb. 18, and from 11 am to 4 pm on Sunday, Feb. 19.

“It’s a dream to be able to collaborate with Smith Entertainment Group and the Utah Jazz to create iconic experiences on a canvas like Salt Lake City – especially during a time like All-Star weekend,” said Travis Scott. “I love Utah and have been coming here for years to snowboard. Salt Lake City is definitely going to be the place everyone will want to be.” 

“Travis has a one-of-a-kind vision that has made him one of the most popular artists in the world, and we are excited for him to bring his creative energy to Utah,” said Ryan Smith, owner of the Utah Jazz. “We couldn’t be more excited about partnering with him on these activations that will help even more fans and the community engage in amazing All-Star weekend celebrations.”

The Utah Jazz will co-host NBA All-Star 2023 in Salt Lake City, which will unite the best and most ardent players for a world celebration of the league. The formal festivities will run from Thursday, February 16 through Sunday, February 19.

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Donovan Mitchell Divulges On If Jazz Should Retire His Jersey

Donovan Mitchell is currently on the Cleveland Cavaliers, however, many fans know him for his work with the Utah Jazz. Mitchell got to spend five years with the Jazz franchise before being traded in the offseason. While he never went far in the playoffs with the Jazz, he did put up incredible numbers.

Recently, Mitchell reflected on his time with Jazz with Marc J. Spears of Andscape. Mitchell was very honest about his experience, noting that he felt like Jazz fans were draining. This is mostly due to their takes on racial issues, particularly during the George Floyd protests.

Donovan Mitchell
Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Cleveland Cavaliers drives to the basket during the third quarter against the Orlando Magic at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse on December 02, 2022 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Cavaliers defeated the Magic 107-96. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)

Donovan Mitchell Jersey Retirement

During the interview with Spears, Mitchell was asked about having his jersey retired by the Jazz. Mitchell was quick to say he doesn’t deserve it. After just five years with the team, Donovan Mitchell acknowledges he simply didn’t achieve enough.

“I don’t think I did enough,” Mitchell said. “I hold myself to a high standard. Now, other people may feel that it should. I’d be happy and forever grateful, honored and blessed for sure for that to happen. But I don’t think I’ve done enough in five years to have my jersey up there with Karl [Malone], John [Stockton], Pistol Pete [Maravich] and Darrell Griffith. I got a long way in my career to go to continue to be better.”

Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Cleveland Cavaliers talks to a reporter after the game against the Los Angeles Lakers at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse on December 06, 2022 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Cavaliers defeated the Lakers 115-100. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)

Mitchell’s take on his own career is pretty agreeable here. While he certainly made the Jazz a relevant team for five years, there is no way he could actually get his jersey retired.

Let us know what you think of Mitchell’s comments, down below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for the latest news from around the NBA world.

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Donovan Mitchell Reveals How Utah Fans Were “Draining”

Donovan Mitchell is currently thriving on the Cleveland Cavaliers. There have been some growing pains along the way, however, it is clear that Mitchell is in a better place. The Cavs have room to grow into the best team in the East, and he is definitely the future of the franchise.

Mitchell is coming from a situation in Utah that was detrimental to his growth. Alongside Rudy Gobert, it was becoming quite clear that the duo couldn’t contend with the upper echelon of teams out West. Additionally, the Jazz seemingly had a rebuild in mind.

Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Cleveland Cavaliers is fouled by Tre Jones #33 of the San Antonio Spurs as he drives to the basket in the first half at AT&T Center on December 12, 2022 in San Antonio, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Cortes/Getty Images)

Recently, Mitchell spoke to Marc J. Spears of Andscape about his transition from Utah to Cleveland. During this conversation, Mitchell was open and honest about how Jazz fans were exhausting to deal with. He felt like many of them didn’t respect him as a black man and that he feels much happier and safer in Cleveland. Overall, it’s easy to empathize with Mitchell as Jazz fans have a less-than-stellar reputation.

Donovan Mitchell Speaks His Mind

“It’s no secret there’s a lot of stuff that I dealt with being in Utah off the floor,” Mitchell said. “If I’m being honest with you, I never really said this, but it was draining. It was just draining on my energy just because you can’t sit in your room and cheer for me and then do all these different things. I’m not saying specifically every fan, but I just feel like it was a lot of things. A [Utah] state senator [Stuart Adams] saying I need to get educated on my own Black history. Seeing Black kids getting bullied because of their skin color. Seeing a little girl [Isabella Tichenor] hang herself because she’s being bullied.

“Man, it was just one thing after another. And I will say, it’s not the only place it happens. But for me, I’m continuing to be an advocate for [racial equality] and to receive the amount of pushback I got over the years, it was a lot.”

Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Cleveland Cavaliers lies on the floor after his last second shot against the San Antonio did not go in at AT&T Center on December 12, 2022 in San Antonio, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Cortes/Getty Images)

Now, Mitchell is in a much friendlier environment, which will set him at ease from week to week. The worst feeling as a player is to think the fanbase hates you, and now, Mitchell will not have to worry about that.

Let us know what you think of Mitchell’s honesty, in the comments below. Also, stay tuned to HNHH for more news from the NBA world.

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