The Golden State Warriors are currently exploring potential trades for star players after missing out on acquiring Paul George. According to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst on his “Brian Windhorst & The Hoop Collective” podcast, the Warriors have been looking into a trade with the Utah Jazz for star forward Lauri Markkanen.
Markkanen is available on the trade market and there is interest from several teams, including the San Antonio Spurs, who are also considering trading for him. Teams in discussions with Utah believe that there is a good chance the Jazz will ultimately trade him.
During the 2023-24 NBA season, Markkanen played 55 games for the Jazz and averaged impressive statistics of 23.2 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game while shooting nearly 40 percent from beyond the arc. Many believe that Markkanen could be an excellent second scoring option for Warriors guard Steph Curry, providing additional size at 7 feet.
Aside from Markkanen, the Warriors are also considering trades for Zach LaVine of the Chicago Bulls and Brandon Ingram of the New Orleans Pelicans. It is uncertain who the Warriors will ultimately acquire through trade, but Markkanen is seen as a potentially great fit for the team due to his impressive statistics and ability to provide additional size on defense.