NBA Rumors: Golden State Warriors reportedly nixing major trade move
The Golden State Warriors reportedly won't make a run for Lauri Markkanen this offseason. According to Bobby Marks, the Warriors won't pursue the one-time All-Star after being involved in trade talks to acquire him.
Two years after winning the NBA championship, the Warriors now look different, especially following the departure of Klay Thompson. The organization still wants to contend for a championship, but things haven't worked out well. Last season, the team missed the postseason.
On Monday, Marks reported that Markkanen is still a target for most teams looking to add another key player. The Warriors are among the teams that have discussed a potential trade for the forward but are not expected to pursue it further.
"All eyes are on Lauri Markkenen, who's re-negotiation and extension eligible on Aug. 6," Marks reported. "The tea leaves are pointing to him re-signing in Utah.
"They (Golden State) are only $533k below that first apron. They cannot go and players and they are still limited with what they can do with draft picks. What you see is what you get with this Golden State roster."
Golden State Warriors linked to Knicks big man
The New York Knicks could make changes to their roster this summer. The Knicks were one of the teams that made major changes by pursuing Mikal Bridges on the trade block. However, they lost Isaiah Hartenstein, who had a great year last season as a backup big man for Mitchell Robinson.
According to David Vertsberger, an SNY contributor, the Knicks could still explore a trade this offseason to address the loss of Hartenstein.
"The Warriors aren’t likely to be sellers in this market, but trading with the Knicks could net them extra ammo for pursuing one of their larger targets. Looney is a cleaner fit at the five for New York than Achiuwa, and Golden State can utilize both him and the picks going into next season," Vertsberger wrote.
In exchange, the Golden State Warriors will receive Precious Achiuwa. Achiuwa only played 49 games for the Knicks last season and averaged 24.2 minutes. He averaged 7.6 points, 7.2 rebounds and 1.1 blocks.