Report: Jazz’s Markkanen trade price a ‘non-starter’ for Warriors
The Utah Jazz’s trade demands for All-Star forward Lauri Markkanen are proving to be a “non-starter” for the Golden State Warriors, who are currently the most interested team, The Athletic’s Shams Charania reported on Monday, citing league sources.
According to Charania, the Warriors have proposed a package that includes guard Moses Moody, future draft picks, and pick swaps. However, the Jazz are also requesting forward Jonathan Kuminga and guard Brandin Podziemski in the potential trade.
While the Jazz are open to trade offers for Markkanen, Charania notes that they are also considering keeping the 2017 No. 7 overall draft pick, who will be eligible for an extension on August 6. This willingness to retain Markkanen likely contributes to their high asking price.
The Athletic’s Tony Jones mentioned on 95.7 The Game last week that the Warriors have a “substantial” offer on the table for Markkanen. “I do think the level of offers that are out there are substantial,” Jones said. “I think they are heavily pick-based. I think with a couple of the offers there, a young player or two out there that has the potential to grow over the course of his career.”
Jones’ comments align with Charania’s latest update, which indicates that the Warriors’ offer centers around Moody and draft picks.
The Warriors have reportedly shown interest in Lauri Markkanen since July 1, shortly after the initial frenzy of free agency. Markkanen, who earned his first All-Star selection and was named Most Improved Player of the Year in the 2022-23 season, averaged 23.2 points and 8.2 rebounds in 55 games during the 2023-24 season.
Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody, both lottery picks from the 2021 NBA Draft, are currently on different developmental paths, influencing the Warriors’ willingness to trade one but not the other. Kuminga had a standout season in 2023-24, posting a career-high 16.1 points per game in 74 appearances, 46 of which were starts. His potential has garnered significant praise from teammates like Draymond Green, who believe the 21-year-old has immense potential. The Warriors reportedly excluded Kuminga from trade discussions involving Paul George with the Los Angeles Clippers earlier in July.
Moody, conversely, has struggled to secure consistent playing time under coach Steve Kerr, despite showing flashes of promise. He averaged 8.1 points in 17.5 minutes per game last season, both career highs.
Brandin Podziemski, the No. 19 overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, is rapidly becoming an essential part of the Warriors’ roster. He started 28 games as a rookie and is poised to maintain a significant role alongside Steph Curry when the 2024-25 season begins in October.
The Jazz’s high asking price for Markkanen reflects their willingness to keep him, especially since he becomes eligible for a contract extension on August 6. Whether the Warriors and Jazz can reach a mutually beneficial agreement in trade negotiations remains uncertain, but it is evident that the Warriors are reluctant to part with Kuminga and Podziemski, who are vital to their future plans.
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