Lauri Markkanen Trade Rumors: Warriors' Offers Haven't Included Podziemski or Kuminga

As the Golden State Warriors continue to pursue a trade for Utah Jazz star Lauri Markkanen, the team reportedly hasn't included two of its young assets in its offers to the Jazz.

Per NBA insider Marc Stein, the Warriors' proposed trades to Utah haven't involved shooting guard Brandin Podziemski or power forward Jonathan Kuminga.

"The Warriors, as of Sunday, continued to be regarded as the league's most ardent Markkanen suitor ... but at the same time still unwilling to surrender Brandin Podziemski in a trade package for the 7-foot Finn," Stein wrote. "Golden State, to date, has pursued Markkanen without including Podziemski or Jonathan Kuminga in trade packages laden with future draft compensation. Obviously no team, to this point, has met Danny Ainge's asking price."

The Warriors have long viewed Podziemski as a core member of its team as it prepares for a post-Steph Curry future. The Athletic's Anthony Slater reported in July that Podziemski's internal value "appears to supersede the external reputation," meaning Golden State likely has a higher admiration of the second-year player than other squads.

When looking at his rookie numbers, the Warriors' acclaim for Podziemski makes sense. As a rookie, he put up 9.2 points, 5.8 rebounds and 3.7 assists while playing just 26.6 minutes per game off the bench. Should Golden State elevate Podziemski to a starting position this season, his numbers should get even better.

While the Warriors haven't included Kuminga in any offers yet, Stein reported in July that they are "more willing" to part with him than Podziemski.

Kuminga, coming off of his third year in the league, had the best season of his career thus far in 2023-24. He put up 16.1 points, 4.8 rebounds and 2.2 assists per game, all career highs, making a leap after head coach Steve Kerr inserted him in the starting lineup.

The two young players' contracts also make them valuable to the Warriors, as they are both on their rookie deals for the next few seasons.

But to get a player of Markkanen's caliber, Golden State might have to be willing to deal either Podziemski or Kuminga. If the Warriors are serious about winning now, it might mean sacrificing their future.