NBA Rumors: Warriors' probable trade target unlikely to agree on extension with Jazz
The Golden State Warriors have been reportedly negotiating a deal for Lauri Markkanen with the Utah Jazz for over than a month. While the two teams haven;t reached a resolution yet, Markkanen is reportedly taking control over his future by not signing a new deal with the Jazz by Tuesday.
The Athletic’s Tim Kawakami reported that Markkanen might be opposed to signing an extension by Tuesday. He said, via Legion Hoops:
“The 27-year-old Markkanen knows he’s going to get major money either now or next summer. By not signing this week, Markkanen essentially gains a bit of control over his future.”
Getting the Finnish forward to sign an extension could be key for the Utah Jazz to get the maximum return if they were to trade him. If he signs a new deal post Tuesday, he won’t be eligible to be traded until July 2025.
As per numerous reports, the Golden State Warriors remain resolute in trying to get a deal done for Lauri Markkanen. Golden State is allegedly not willing to part ways with Brandin Podziemski, who is said to be high on Utah’s desired list.
If Markkanen doesn’t sign an extension at all, he becomes an unrestricted free agent next season and walk from Utah for free. Thus, time is of the essence for the Jazz. While they are likely waiting for the best deal to materialize, likely from the Warriors, there’s a high chance if Danny Ainge and Utah drags this on, they might be forced to see the forward walk for free in less than a year.
Warriors star Steph Curry remains committed to staying with team
The Golden State Warriors have struggled to string together great seasons after winning the title in 2022. While most things have gone against them, Steph Curry remains committed to the team, but it’s not unconditional anymore.
It’s no surprise that Curry wants to add more titles to his resume. He's a borderline top-10 player in the history of the game, and another Larry O’Brien trophy might even push him into the top-five players conversation. In July, Curry spoke to Andscape’s Marc J. Spears about his future:
“I’ve always said I want to be a Warrior for life. At this stage in my career, I feel like that’s possible. I’m taking it one step at a time to be honest. I think that’s the only way that will protect my happiness. Also, it allows me to enjoy being myself when I’m out there playing.
"And I’ll continue to make the decisions that are best for me and for my career at the end of the day when it comes to just the imagination. I want to win. Let’s put it this way: it’s a long-winded way of saying that if it is a situation where you’re a bottom feeder and it’s just because you want to stay there, I’d have a hard time with that. But I don’t think that’s going to be the reality.”
Steph Curry’s stance makes it clear that he isn’t planning his future beyond the Warriors yet. But he understands that time is running out on his illustrious NBA career, and Golden State needs to build a strong team around him. Getting Lauri Markkanen seems like the best route for now, and Monday’s news should make Golden State fans more hopeful about the future.