The Golden State Warriors have done a solid job rebuilding their roster on the fly. After the glorious mismanagement of franchise legend Klay Thompson, building a competent roster alongside NBA superstar Stephen Curry was pertinent. So far, Mike Dunleavy and his staff have done just that.
Through three savvy signings, they have made up for much of what they lost from Klay. In Buddy Hield, they have a shooter near the level of a current-day Klay.
However, in DeAnthony Melton, the team has an All-Defense caliber perimeter defender, ala yesteryear Thompson. Adding Kyle Anderson, who was once a 39% three-point shooter, gives the team a pseudo-Draymond Green off the bench.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Lauri Markkanen, Golden State Warriors, Utah Jazz Updates
Overall, the team has rebounded brilliantly from last season’s atrocities. However, Golden State still needs a big-time player to elevate themselves.
While Curry remains among the game’s best, the team lacks a true second star. That is where the rumor market has been buzzing. Most reports say the Warriors are in the mix for Utah Jazz superstar Lauri Markkanen.
After making back-to-back All-Star games, the 2022 MIP winner has become a consistent 20+ ppg scorer. He gives Steve Kerr some size to mix around with as a bonus.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Lauri Markkanen, Golden State Warriors, Utah Jazz Updates
A consistent issue throughout their run is that the coach has few options beyond sophomore Trayce Jackson-Davis. In Markkanen, the team gets a legit 7-footer who can score and shoot with the best of them.
But for a second-apron team looking to minimize its roster cost, what does a potential deal for the Jazz cornerstone look like?
Details of a potential trade for Lauri Markkanen
Warriors Receive: Lauri Markkanen
Jazz Receive: Andrew Wiggins, Moses Moody, 2025 1st Round Pick, 2027 1st Round Pick, 2026 2nd Round Pick, 2028 2nd Round Pick
The Utah Jazz might be compelled to make the trade for two reasons simultaneously. As one of the primary teams looking to enter the Cooper Flagg sweepstakes, Utah will be looking for a below-par season. The availability of a superstar like Lauri makes that dream unattainable, as he will indeed power the Jazz to a few victories himself.
On the other hand, adding to their war chest, thanks to the Warriors, will always be a target for a shrewd GM like Danny Ainge. With Steph in the waning years of his career, Golden State could fall off a cliff anytime in the next few years, making those teams highly valuable.
Further, with Andrew Wiggins, the team gets a 3-and-D wing. If he goes back to his 2022 Championship run self, Wiggins could fetch Ainge a hefty return himself at the trade deadline or beyond.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Lauri Markkanen, Golden State Warriors, Utah Jazz Updates
Similarly, Moses Moody, from the young core, hasn’t gotten a chance to shine or develop in the Golden State system. However, under coach Will Hardy and better chances, Moody could develop into a solid player and the top-10 pick he came to the league as.
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