Jazz 'focused' on Warriors guard in Lauri Markkanen trade talks

Brandin Podziemski's versatility, specifically his playmaking ability, earned him considerable playing time as a rookie for the Warriors last season. The second-year guard has continued to impress in the ongoing NBA Summer League, averaging 18.5 points, 9.5 rebounds and 6.5 assists through two games.

Podz's ability to impact the game in a multitude of ways has caught the attention of the Utah Jazz. According to The Athletic's Shams Charania, Podziemski, not Jonathan Kuminga, is the Jazz's focus in a potential trade with Golden State that would send All-Star forward Lauri Markkanen to the Bay Area.

"Kuminga is a name but I think, for everything I'm told, the Jazz are more focused on Brandin Podziemski and his inclusion in the deal," Charania said during the Summer League Monday night. "I think from the Warriors perspective, it's Podziemski, but then there's not all the picks and if it's all the picks, then there's not going to be a Podziemski."

If the Warriors can retain Kuminga — a player many expect to make an All-Star leap next season — and still acquire Markkanen, it should be considered a success for them. As much upside as Podz has, Kuminga is a little more ready to contribute to a winning team after spending three seasons under the learning tree of Steve Kerr and Co. Furthermore, Kuminga's athleticism on the wings is not an attribute they can afford to lose due to the waning abilities of Draymond Green and Kevon Looney.

The Warriors have reportedly been the "most engaged" team on a trade involving Markkanen, who averaged 23.2 points and 8.2 rebounds for the Jazz last season. Golden State has built a package around Andrew Wiggins, Moses Moody and picks, refusing to include Podz or Kuminga.

The loss of Podziemski will hurt momentarily, but the Warriors must do right by Curry, who turns 37 next March. It is incumbent upon them to give him a roster that can make serious noise out West.