The Golden State Warriors entered the offseason with high hopes, actively engaging in trade discussions centered around Chris Paul’s $30 million non-guaranteed salary.
There was significant anticipation about Paul George possibly joining Stephen Curry and Draymond Green in Golden State, but the Warriors’ reluctance ultimately ended those prospects.
Attention then shifted to Lauri Markkanen as the Warriors’ next target. With Chris Paul and his tradeable salary out of the picture, the Warriors still had Andrew Wiggins’ substantial contract and several promising young players to offer the Utah Jazz.
Additionally, the Warriors have numerous draft picks that could sweeten any potential deal. The challenge now lies in presenting a package that would entice Danny Ainge and the Jazz.
Markkanen’s favorable contract, age (27), and versatile skills make him a highly valuable asset. The Jazz are under no pressure to trade him, especially with the possibility of a contract extension looming if he stays in Salt Lake City.
Utah’s only incentive to trade Markkanen would be to initiate a rebuilding phase, which they would only consider if the Warriors can significantly facilitate that process.
The proposed Paul George trade reportedly fell through because the Warriors were unwilling to include Jonathan Kuminga.
Currently, it seems Golden State’s attachment to Brandin Podziemski is hindering another potential All-Star acquisition.
The Jazz are interested in the second-year guard from Santa Clara, who had an impressive All-Rookie season. However, the Warriors are highly protective of Podziemski and are hesitant to trade him.
NBA insider Marc Stein reports that the Warriors might be more open to trading Kuminga, who was once considered almost untouchable, in a deal for Markkanen.
However, Golden State’s offers to this point have primarily involved Moses Moody and draft picks, excluding both Podziemski and Kuminga.
There is growing speculation that the Warriors would prefer to trade Kuminga over Podziemski in a significant deal for Markkanen or any major trade. Nevertheless, their current offers for Markkanen have been centered around Moody and draft assets, without including their more prized young players.
This approach indicates the Warriors’ strategic planning and the value they place on maintaining their young talent while pursuing key additions to their roster.
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