The Golden State Warriors are facing significant changes as they attempt to regroup following the split of their well-known duo, the "Splash Brothers." With the departure of key players, the team is now focused on reassembling a competitive roster for the upcoming season. The Warriors have already made notable moves, securing guard De'Anthony Melton on a one-year, $12.8 million contract and reportedly acquiring forward Kyle Anderson through a sign-and-trade.
An intriguing development is the potential addition of sharpshooter Buddy Hield, also through a sign-and-trade mechanism. At 31 years old, Hield's experience and precision could prove vital to the Warriors. Hield's signing, if completed, will complement the existing roster, including 34-year-old Klay Thompson and 39-year-old Chris Paul.
Warriors Eyeing Lauri Markkanen
Perhaps the most ambitious target in the Warriors' sights is Lauri Markkanen, a versatile 27-year-old forward from the Utah Jazz. Standing at 7 feet tall, Markkanen made a notable impact by making the All-Star Game in 2023. Over the past two seasons with the Jazz, he has averaged an impressive 24.5 points with a remarkable 63.6% true shooting percentage. His ability to shoot, particularly hitting 41.4% of his catch-and-shoot threes last season, enhances his appeal.
The Warriors are aggressively pursuing Markkanen, with sources indicating they are the leading team in the sweepstakes. However, they face stiff competition. The San Antonio Spurs have shown significant interest, and teams like the Sacramento Kings, Minnesota Timberwolves, and New Orleans Pelicans are also in the fray.
Costly Trade Prospects
Acquiring Markkanen is expected to be an expensive endeavor. The Utah Jazz reportedly demand a trade package similar to what the New York Knicks offered for Mikal Bridges. That deal involved five first-round picks, four of which were unprotected, an unprotected pick swap, and a second-rounder. Adrian Wojnarowski said, "Utah's not sure it wants to trade him, but they have to listen. They've been listening. And a lot of the teams who lost out on Mikal Bridges from Brooklyn have transferred over to trying to see if they can land Lauri Markkanen out of Utah. Golden State is one of those teams."
Chris Haynes echoed this sentiment, adding, "They are trying to do whatever they can to get into the fold, but it's going to be a costly price to get Lauri. The Utah Jazz, they don't necessarily want to trade Lauri, but they will for the right price tag."
Perhaps it's no surprise that some teams, like the Houston Rockets, are already bowing out. Kelly Iko of The Athletic noted, "The Houston Rockets are not going after Markkanen because they think the price is 'exorbitant.'" Utah is certainly in a strong negotiating position, making the Jazz's decision to trade or retain Markkanen a pivotal storyline this offseason.
Financial Considerations
Markkanen's current contract may add another layer of complexity to the negotiations. He has one more year left on his deal at $18 million, a figure regarded below market value. However, the Jazz have the cap space to bump his 2023-24 salary up to $42.3 million and potentially offer an extension worth up to $202 million over four years. Such financial flexibility could make the Jazz more inclined to retain their star forward unless they receive a truly compelling offer.
This off-season is shaping up to be a critical juncture for the Warriors as they navigate these complex trade discussions and financial maneuvers. With Andrew Wiggins reportedly on the trading block, the Warriors appear willing to make significant changes to reshape their roster. The next few months will reveal whether these efforts will translate into the acquisition of a star like Markkanen and how these maneuvers will influence their competitive stance in the upcoming season.