Warriors have never come close to landing Lauri Markkanen
Despite pursuing Lauri Markkanen for the majority of the offseason, the Golden State Warriors look set to miss out on the multi-skilled big man. He is reportedly close to signing a multi-year extension with the Utah Jazz. The Warriors have reportedly fallen short with their trade offers, as Utah's front office has stood firm on their lofty asking price.
According to ESPN's Bobby Marks, the Warriors were 'never close' to reaching a trade agreement with Utah. Markkanen's value was set at a deal including one or both of Brandin Podziemski and Jonathan Kuminga, along with multiple draft assets.
"The Golden State Warriors have been the most aggressive suitor for Markkanen, but Utah and Golden State have not come close to getting a deal done," Marks reported. "One source told ESPN the Warriors have been "very protective" of second-year guard Brandin Podziemski, the player on Golden State's roster who most intrigues the Jazz. Golden State has also not indicated an inclination to meet the Jazz's high threshold for draft compensation in return."
By keeping Podziemski and Kuminga out of trade discussions, the Warriors have made it clear that both young talents are seen as core parts of the franchise's future, which will undoubtedly make future trade discussions more difficult.
Nevertheless, Golden State still has enough assets to pivot in the trade market. Whether that occurs before the season or closer to the trade deadline is all that remains to be seen.
This article originally appeared on Warriors Wire: Warriors have never come close to landing Lauri Markkanen
