Lauri Markkanen Trade Rumors: Podziemski Valued More Highly by Warriors Than Rivals

The Golden State Warriors reportedly view second-year guard Brandin Podziemski higher than rivals potentially interested in trading with the team, per The Athletic's Anthony Slater.

"From the Warriors' side, his internal value, which appears to supersede the external reputation, can be spelled out through some of his rookie numbers," Slater wrote.

The Warriors' high evaluation of Podziemski comes amid trade rumors surrounding Utah Jazz star Lauri Markkanen. Per The Athletic's Shams Charania, the Jazz are interested in the majority of Golden State's trade assets, which would include Podziemski.

Though he's still early in his career, preparing to enter his second year in the league, Podziemski has impressed so far for Golden State. As a rookie, he put up 9.2 points, 5.8 rebounds and 3.7 assists per game while playing 26.6 minutes mostly off the bench.

Before he joined the Dallas Mavericks via a sign-and-trade, veteran Klay Thompson was reportedly slated to come off the bench with Podziemski moving to a starting role. That shows just how highly the Warriors think of Podziemski, and it won't be a surprise to see his numbers improve when he becomes a starter.

If Podziemski develops the way Golden State expects him to, he could be one of the better values in the league as he's set to make $3.5 million, $3.7 million and $5.7 million over the next three seasons as he finishes out his rookie contract.