The Golden State Warriors are reportedly interested in acquiring Lauri Markkanen from the Utah Jazz. He would provide the size and skill the team has been missing in the frontcourt for multiple years. However, Danny Ainge is a notoriously difficult negotiator, and that could lead to a drawn-out trade saga.
In a recent article from The Athletic’s Shams Charania, the Warriors’ initial trade offer for the veteran forward was revealed. Golden State would be willing to part with Moses Moody and multiple future draft picks. Utah is currently in a rebuilding phase, so that package would help provide future flexibility in the trade market.
“League sources tell The Athletic they have discussed a proposal around Moses Moody, multiple first-round picks, multiple pick swaps and multiple second-round picks,” Charania reported.
Golden State has enough trade capital to land a star-level talent. After missing out on Paul George at the start of free agency, Markkanen projects as the perfect secondary or tertiary star alongside Steph Curry and Draymond Green.
Furthermore, Markkanen is young enough to slot into the front office’s future plans, and potentially form a devastating partnership with Jonathan Kuminga and Brandin Podziemski. Still, it’s unclear whether Utah and the Golden State will reach an agreement to sent Markkanen to the Bay Area.
