SALT LAKE CITY - Lauri Markkanen put on a spectacular offensive display at Delta Center on Monday night, October 27, pouring in a career-high 51 points to lead the Utah Jazz to a hard-fought 138-134 overtime victory over the Phoenix Suns.

The 27-year-old Finnish forward etched his name into Jazz franchise history, becoming the first player to score 50 points in a regular season game for Utah since the legendary Karl Malone achieved the milestone 27 years ago. Markkanen's explosive performance showcased his complete offensive arsenal as he shot 14-for-32 from the field and connected on 6-of-13 attempts from beyond the arc.

Perhaps most impressive was Markkanen's perfect night from the charity stripe, where he converted all 17 of his free throw attempts, including a crucial pair with just 1.9 seconds remaining that sealed the victory for the Jazz. The 7-footer also contributed significantly on the boards, pulling down 14 rebounds in a dominant two-way performance.

While Markkanen stole the headlines, the Jazz received valuable contributions from their supporting cast. Point guard Keyonte George orchestrated the offense brilliantly, tallying 26 points and dishing out 10 assists. Center Walker Kessler delivered an all-around effort with 25 points, 11 rebounds, four assists, and four blocks, providing the interior presence Utah needed to outlast Phoenix in the extra period.

The Suns, despite the loss, received another stellar performance from Devin Booker, who led all Phoenix scorers with 34 points, including five three-pointers. However, Booker's efforts were not enough to prevent the Suns from dropping their third consecutive game, capping a disappointing 0-3 road trip.

The contest lived up to its billing as an overtime thriller, with both teams trading baskets throughout regulation. Neither squad could establish separation, ultimately forcing the extra five-minute period. In overtime, Markkanen continued his torrid scoring pace, attacking the rim relentlessly and earning trips to the free-throw line where his perfect shooting proved decisive.

For Markkanen, the performance represents a career milestone and validates his emergence as one of the premier forwards in the Western Conference. Since joining the Jazz, the former lottery pick has blossomed into a cornerstone player, and Monday's 51-point explosion demonstrated his ability to take over games when his team needs him most.

The victory improves Utah's early-season record and provides momentum as they continue navigating a competitive Western Conference landscape. For Phoenix, the loss extends their current skid and raises questions about defensive adjustments needed to slow down elite scorers. The Suns will look to regroup as they return home from their unsuccessful road swing.