NBA insider says Warriors and Jazz were 'never' close to working out Lauri Markkanen deal
The Golden State Warriors’ reported interest in Utah Jazz star Lauri Markkanen has been one of the biggest stories in the offseason. After failing to make the playoffs with a healthy Steph Curry, the Dubs are retooling their roster. Getting the Finn will make the Bay Area team legitimate title contenders again.
GM Mike Dunleavy Jr. reportedly went after former LA Clippers forward Paul George but couldn’t get a sign-and-trade deal. When “PG-13” eventually opted out to play for the Philadelphia 76ers, Dunleavy shifted his attention to Markkanen.
The rumors of Lauri Markkanen’s potential move have been rampant but ESPN’s Bobby Marks and Tim McMahon doused cold water on those talks.
Here’s what Marks had to say in a report on Monday:
“The Golden State Warriors have been the most aggressive suitor for Markkanen, but Utah and Golden State have not come close to getting a deal done. One source told ESPN the Warriors have been ‘very protective’ of second-year guard Brandin Podziemski, the player on Golden State's roster who most intrigues the Jazz.
“Golden State has also not indicated an inclination to meet the Jazz's high threshold for draft compensation in return.”
The crux of the potential trade lies in the availability of Brandin Podziemski or Jonathan Kuminga. As the Dubs are unwilling to include both or one of them in trade discussions, then the plan to acquire Lauri Markkanen seems over.
The Warriors have to find a consistent second scorer after failing to land Lauri Markkanen
Golden State Warriors GM Mike Dunleavy beefed up Steph Curry’s supporting cast after Klay Thompson took his talents to Dallas. Dunleavy brought in De’Anthony Melton, Kyle Anderson and Lindy Waters III but the team still lacks a legit go-to scoring option other than Curry.
Jonathan Kuminga had a breakout campaign last season and his further development might make the chase for Markkanen foolish. The athletic forward averaged 16.1 points, 4.8 rebounds and 2.2 assists per game, all career-high numbers. On some occasions last season, he looked like the Dubs’ best player.
Kuminga will have more on his plate next season. He will not be overlooked by opposing teams after what he showed during the 2023-24 campaign. Only time will tell if he can sustain or even improve on that performance.
If Jonathan Kuminga answers the bell, the failure to get Lauri Markkanen will not hurt as much. Otherwise, the Warriors could be looking to make more moves before next year’s February trade deadline.