3 Alternative Players The Warriors Could Trade For Instead Of Lauri Markkanen

The Golden State Warriors are in the midst of a highly active offseason, making headlines with their aggressive pursuit of Utah Jazz star Lauri Markkanen . With the departure of Klay Thompson to the Dallas Mavericks and the addition of players like Kyle Anderson and Buddy Hield through sign-and-trade deals, the Warriors are clearly aiming to restructure their roster and strengthen their championship bid.

The quest to acquire Markkanen has seen the Warriors offering significant assets, but the Jazz's demands for key players like Moses Moody and Jonathan Kuminga have made negotiations challenging. Despite the intense focus on Markkanen, the Warriors are also exploring other viable trade targets to ensure they remain competitive in the Western Conference.

As Golden State navigates these complex trade discussions, it’s essential to consider alternative players who could provide similar benefits. The Warriors need a player who can blend seamlessly with their existing core, offering both offensive and defensive contributions. Here are three alternative players the Warriors could trade for instead of Lauri Markkanen, each bringing unique strengths to potentially elevate the team’s performance.

Jerami Grant Could Elevate The Team For A Cheap Price

Warriors receive: Jerami Grant

Blazers receive: Andrew Wiggins, Moses Moody

Jerami Grant is a highly skilled forward with the potential to significantly elevate the Golden State Warriors' performance. Currently, Grant is with the Portland Trail Blazers , who are in a rebuilding phase and may be willing to part with him due to his hefty contract. Grant is signed to a five-year, $160 million deal, which is a substantial commitment for a team that isn't in immediate contention. This makes him a prime candidate for a trade, especially if the Blazers can acquire promising young talent in return.

In this proposed trade, the Warriors would send Andrew Wiggins and Moses Moody to Portland. Wiggins, while a solid player, has a sizable contract that the Warriors might be willing to move. Moses Moody, on the other hand, is a young player with considerable potential, which would appeal to the Blazers' long-term rebuilding strategy. Moody's ability to develop into a key player could be enticing enough for Portland to take on Wiggins' contract as part of the deal.

For the Warriors, acquiring Grant would be a strategic move to bolster their lineup. Grant's versatility on both ends of the court would be a perfect fit for Golden State's system. Offensively, he averaged 21.0 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 2.8 assists in 54 games last season, showcasing his scoring ability. Defensively, his length and athleticism make him an excellent defender who can guard multiple positions. Pairing Grant with Draymond Green in the frontcourt would significantly enhance the Warriors' defensive capabilities, creating a formidable duo that can switch and cover ground effectively.

Integrating Grant into the Warriors' lineup alongside Stephen Curry , Brandin Podziemski, Buddy Hield, and Draymond Green would create a balanced and dynamic team. Curry's playmaking and shooting, combined with Hield's sharpshooting, would open up the floor for Grant to operate effectively. Podziemski, a promising rookie, would benefit from playing alongside such experienced teammates, accelerating his development. Green's defensive leadership and playmaking would complement Grant's skill set, allowing the Warriors to maintain their high defensive standards while adding more offensive firepower.

Jerami Grant's addition could be a game-changer for the Warriors. His ability to contribute on both ends of the court, coupled with his fit within the Warriors' system, makes him an ideal target. The Blazers, focused on rebuilding, might see value in acquiring a young talent like Moses Moody and a solid player in Andrew Wiggins. This trade would be a win-win for both teams, aligning with their respective goals for the upcoming seasons.

Related: NBA Trade Rumors: Lauri Markkanen Pursued By Warriors, Spurs, Kings, And Timberwolves

Alperen Sengun Would Add Great Upside To The Young Core

Warriors receive: Alperen Sengun

Rockets receive: Jonathan Kuminga, Moses Moody, 2026 first-round pick

Alperen Sengun could be the perfect addition to the Golden State Warriors, offering significant upside and fitting seamlessly with their young core. Sengun has been a standout player for the Houston Rockets , averaging 21.1 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game in the 2023-24 season. His impressive stats underscore his potential as a versatile big man, capable of contributing both offensively and defensively.

Despite his success, there have been rumors that the Rockets were open to trading Sengun in the past, particularly in light of their interest in acquiring Kevin Durant. Although that trade didn't materialize, the possibility of moving Sengun remains a topic of discussion, making him an attainable target for the Warriors.

Losing Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody would be a significant blow, but Sengun's skill set is arguably a better fit for the Warriors. His ability to facilitate the offense and protect the rim would complement the Warriors' style of play, especially alongside Stephen Curry, Brandin Podziemski, Buddy Hield, and Draymond Green. Sengun's presence would provide a dynamic inside-outside game, making the Warriors more versatile and difficult to defend.

Sengun's rumored availability and his recent performance make him an attractive option for the Warriors, who are looking to maximize their championship window while building a strong foundation for the future. This trade could strike the perfect balance, giving the Warriors immediate impact and long-term potential.

John Collins Could Be the Perfect Fit for the Warriors

Warriors receive: John Collins

Jazz receive: Andrew Wiggins, 2028 first-round pick, 2025 and 2026 second-round picks

John Collins might be just what the Warriors need to bolster their roster. Last season, Collins averaged 15.1 points and 8.5 rebounds per game, showcasing his offensive capabilities and athleticism. While his defense isn't elite, his ability to score and rebound makes him a valuable asset.

Compared to Lauri Markkanen, Collins comes at a potentially lower cost and still provides a significant boost. The Warriors have been eyeing Markkanen, but if that deal doesn't pan out, Collins offers a solid alternative without the hefty price tag. Adding Collins alongside Steph Curry, Brandin Podziemski, Buddy Hield, and Draymond Green would enhance the team's offensive flexibility and overall playmaking.

For the Jazz, this trade brings in a seasoned player in Andrew Wiggins and valuable draft picks, aligning with their long-term strategy. Meanwhile, the Warriors get a younger, more versatile player who can fit seamlessly into their high-paced style of play, aiming to maximize their championship potential now and in the future. This trade scenario presents a win-win for both teams, addressing their respective needs and strategic goals.

Related: Proposed 4-Team Trade Scenario Helps The Warriors And Completely Blows Out The Bulls