Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen sits out against San Antonio Spurs due to back spasms

Markkanen averaging career highs this season

Utah Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen will miss Monday's game against the San Antonio Spurs due to back spasms, the team announced.

Markkanen is averaging career highs in points (24.9), rebounds (8.7) and assists (2.4) this season, and has been a key part of the Jazz's surprising 20-21 start.

Jazz hoping to avoid prolonged absence

The Jazz will be hoping that Markkanen's absence is not prolonged, as they are already without Donovan Mitchell (groin) and Rudy Gobert (calf).

Utah has won four of its last five games, and is currently in fourth place in the Western Conference.