Auri Markkanen would benefit the Golden State Warriors. However, talks with the Utah Jazz appear to have stalled.
“Not much has changed for the Golden State Warriors in the past several days of a quieting free-agency period,” Slater wrote July 9. They are still after Utah Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen, league insiders said, but have entered the waiting period of a lengthy process. Slater said the Sacramento Kings discussed Markkanen before choosing DeMar DeRozan due to a “time crunch.” He likened the Kings’ position then to the Warriors’ currently.
“The Warriors lack urgency. They’re willing to wait for Markkanen’s answer, assuming contractual dynamics will provide clarity by Aug. 6. If Utah relents before then, the Warriors can consider what they would give for Markkanen. Lauri Markkanen May Stay With Utah Slater stated that Markkanen’s contract expires in 2025, and the league anticipates an extension with the Jazz. “As many have noted, Markkanen becomes extension eligible on Aug. 6. His $18 million deal expires and he deserves a big rise. Many in the NBA believe the Jazz will renegotiate and extend Markkanen utilising their cap space after exploring his trade market.
Markkanen would be out of the running for six months if the agreement is signed on Aug. 6, returning on Feb. 6, next season’s trade deadline. If Markkanen extends until Aug. 7 or beyond, he won’t be available to be dealt next season, giving him more leverage and more information to influence Utah’s decision. If that happens, the Warriors have few star options. Markkanen, 27, is cheap and an All-Star. There are few tradeable players.
Golden State made huge offseason moves, including Klay Thompson’s departure. They signed Kyle Anderson, Buddy Hield, and De’Anthony Melton. All three are useful role players who could help the Warriors reach the playoffs. Golden State sought to trade for Paul George, but the Clippers refused. So they resorted to Markkanen. Warriors seem determined to salvage their time with Stephen Curry and Draymond Green. In 2024, they missed the playoffs, proving they need another star to win another title.
