Is Brandin Podziemski Untouchable?

It seems Stephen Curry's twilight years in the NBA won't include a championship. Following the heavily trafficked rumors of Lauri Markkanen signing a long-term contract extension, the Golden State Warriors' stubbornness likely contributed to the Utah Jazz reneging on trade discussions of their All-Star.

According to The Athletic's Shams Charania, while Curry is the Warriors' current primary focus, Brandin Podziemski is their "guard of the future." According to reports, the Warriors refused to include Podziemski in a trade for Markkanen.

It's unlikely any notable trade would net a star if Mike Dunleavy Jr. doesn't give up Podziemski in the deal.

Podziemski averaged 9 points on 38 percent shooting from behind the three-point line. Shooting aside, the sophomore guard has legitimate point guard skills, which signifies a trait worth labeling Podziemski as the Warriors' "guard of the future."

Podziesmki dished 14 assists vs the Memphis Grizzlies on February 2. From a salary cap standpoint, the Golden State sophomore is one of the most valuable players in the league.

Costing only $12.8 million for the next three seasons, the Warriors legitimately have control over their destiny with Podziemski, as they have a team option for the last two years of his contract.

Dunleavy's obsession with Podziemski isn't as illogical as it seems. How long can the Warriors pay a lofty tab for a Play-In tournament team? Moreover, the Warriors are $11 million away from the second apron.

If the Warriors genuinely want to contend for a championship, they must part ways with either Jonathan Kuminga or Podziemski. However, if Charania's report holds, Kuminga is likely the odd player out due to the potential price of his upcoming contract.