The Golden State Warriors are leaning towards protecting sophomore Brandin Podziemski over Jonathan Kuminga in potential trade talks.
The Warriors have shown significant interest in acquiring Lauri Markkanen from the Utah Jazz. Markkanen’s addition would bolster the Warriors’ chances in the competitive Western Conference, but the Jazz are demanding a high price. If the trade requires parting with young talents, the Warriors would rather trade Jonathan Kuminga than Brandin Podziemski.
“There is a growing belief league-wide that the Warriors would be more willing to move Jonathan Kuminga in a Markkanen trade — or any big-swing deal — than Podziemski. However, it must be noted that Golden State’s offers for Markkanen have centered around a package featuring Moses Moody and draft compensation without including Podziemski or Kuminga,” reported a source.
The Warriors have been attempting to finalize a deal without sacrificing either player, but the Jazz remain firm in their stance, rejecting offers regardless of the number of draft picks included.
Kuminga has long been viewed as a future star by the Warriors, averaging 16.1 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.2 assists last season. If he stays, he is expected to become the team’s No. 2 option behind Stephen Curry.
On the other hand, Podziemski impressed everyone as a rookie, earning a spot on the All-Rookie First Team with averages of 9.2 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 3.7 assists. He filled in for Klay Thompson last season and is projected to start alongside Curry in the backcourt next season.
Both players are valuable assets that would significantly contribute to the Warriors’ contention if retained. However, following the precedent set by the Knicks’ acquisition of Mikal Bridges, Danny Ainge and the Jazz are holding out for a substantial trade package, similar to the return the Nets received.
The Jazz’s Firm Stance
The Jazz are determined to maximize the return for Markkanen, a key asset acquired in the Donovan Mitchell trade, which already brought multiple future assets from the Cavaliers. The overall cost of that trade could escalate significantly if the Warriors meet Utah’s demands.
Shams Charania has reported the Warriors’ interest in Markkanen and their reluctance to part with players beyond Moses Moody. However, the Jazz seek a package including both Podziemski and Kuminga, alongside Moody.
“The Golden State Warriors have been the most engaged team for Markkanen in recent weeks. League sources tell The Athletic they have discussed a proposal around Moses Moody, multiple first-round picks, multiple pick swaps, and multiple second-round picks. The Jazz, however, have asked for the bulk of young talent and capital the Warriors possess, including Moody, Jonathan Kuminga, and Brandin Podziemski, along with picks, which has been a non-starter thus far for Golden State,” noted Charania.
Markkanen averaged 23.2 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 2.0 assists last season, making him an attractive target for the Warriors. His presence would alleviate offensive pressure on Curry while adding size to the frontcourt alongside Draymond Green. Whether he can replicate his Utah performance in Golden State remains to be seen, but the Warriors are exploring all avenues for a Markkanen trade.
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