Lauri Markkanen Scores Top EuroBasket Prep Finland Hosts Group Play

Lauri Markkanen has demonstrated impressive scoring ability during the EuroBasket 2025 preparation games, averaging over 30 points per game and helping Finland to an undefeated 4-0 record. Despite this strong performance, ESPN's Neil Payne ranked Markkanen only seventh among NBA players in the tournament, citing his down season in 2023-24 and a below-average advanced metric (RAPTOR). Some critics argue that this ranking is too low, especially given Markkanen's recent form and outperforming others ranked above him such as Kristaps Porzingis. Markkanen's performance dipped in the final friendly against Poland, but this is viewed as less significant given the nature of exhibition games. The tournament's group play, starting soon, will provide clearer insight into whether Markkanen can return to his previous star form and justify his status as a top-level player. Meanwhile, other NBA players like Nikola Jokic, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Luka Doncic remain the top-ranked competitors in EuroBasket.