The Golden State Warriors must act quickly if they want to secure Lauri Markkanen. According to recent reports from Marc Stein, the Warriors remain the “most ardent” suitors for Markkanen. While this isn’t entirely new information, the narrative around Markkanen has evolved significantly in recent days.
The Utah Jazz appear poised to extend the Finnish All-Star’s contract. Markkanen is keen to stay in Salt Lake City, and the Warriors have yet to offer Brandin Podziemski or Jonathan Kuminga as part of the trade package.
Simply put, Danny Ainge is not easily swayed. Despite offering numerous draft picks, the Warriors’ deal won’t go through without including Podziemski or Kuminga. To acquire Markkanen to play alongside Stephen Curry and Draymond Green, the Warriors must sacrifice some of their youth movement.
Time is of the essence. Markkanen aims to sign his extension after August 6, making him ineligible for a trade until the next offseason. The Warriors have only a few days left to finalize a deal and pry Markkanen from Utah. While the odds are slim, the NBA is known for its surprises. As long as the Warriors are still making calls, they remain in the running for Markkanen.
Here’s a potential trade scenario that could compel Utah to part with Markkanen and strengthen the Warriors’ lineup.
Warriors-Jazz Trade to Pair Lauri Markkanen and Stephen Curry in Golden State
This trade serves as a baseline, possibly requiring more from Golden State due to Markkanen’s value and Utah’s lack of pressure to trade him. Both sides seem content with their current arrangement, so the Warriors must disrupt the status quo and force a change, requiring serious commitment.
The Warriors are fond of Podziemski, likely for the same reasons Utah has prioritized him in negotiations. While the exact nature of trade talks is unknown, it appears to be “Podziemski or bust” for Utah. The Jazz won’t trade their best player without acquiring the Warriors’ top prospect.
Podziemski impressed during his first NBA season, earning All-Rookie honors and a spot on the U.S. national select team. His stats — 9.2 points, 5.8 rebounds, 3.7 assists on .454/.385/.633 splits in 26.6 minutes — may not stand out, but his overall game does. He’s a high-upside player who’s also solid right now and can contribute to Utah’s offense from day one.
A wing in a guard’s body, Podziemski excels in rebounding and team defense. Although not a point guard, he’s a sharp playmaker with excellent court vision. Podziemski’s feel, shot-making, and motor make him a valuable asset for any team, and he’s poised to be a winning player for the next decade or more.
Utah would also acquire Moses Moody, who could thrive in a new environment. Kevon Looney’s expiring contract would help match salaries, allowing Golden State to take on Markkanen’s $18 million expiring contract before negotiating a long-term max deal.
Markkanen is the ideal second star for the Warriors. While not a primary creator, he’s an elite play-finisher. As a true 7-footer with exceptional movement shooting ability, Markkanen can hit 3s from tough angles with a quick trigger. Steve Kerr’s offense is designed to maximize a player like Markkanen, making it difficult for defenses to contain both Curry and Markkanen as they move off-ball.
This trade would maximize Curry’s remaining years, giving him a legitimate shot to contend in the West. Markkanen would push the Warriors closer to the conference’s top contenders.
Never. Say. Never.
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