The Golden State Warriors may seek a new partner for Steph Curry following their absence from the playoffs in the 2023-24 season. With a desire to capitalize on their competitive window, the Warriors possess trade assets, including two first-round picks and multiple pick swaps. Zach Buckley from Bleacher Report outlined plausible trade scenarios for the Warriors, suggesting Lauri Markkanen of the Utah Jazz as a potential candidate.
Buckley highlighted the Warriors’ capacity to engage in discussions without losing anything and proposed a package consisting of draft picks and promising young players like Jonathan Kuminga, Brandin Podziesmki, Trayce Jackson-Davis, and Moses Moody. Should negotiations materialize into a deal, Markkanen could become Curry’s new on-court companion, bringing impressive statistics from his time with the Jazz, including scoring averages of 24.5 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 3.1 three-pointers per game, along with stellar shooting percentages.
Considering Curry’s advancing age, approaching 36, the Warriors face a pivotal offseason to fortify their roster around him. Despite Curry’s continued excellence, evidenced by his 26.4 points per game and sharp three-point shooting, marginal changes are unlikely to elevate the team to championship contention. Therefore, Buckley advocates for bold moves, given the Warriors’ ability to orchestrate significant trades and the imperative to surround Curry with high-caliber talent.
After a disappointing loss to the Sacramento Kings in the Play-In Tournament, Warriors’ general manager Mike Dunleavy acknowledged the team’s shortcomings, emphasizing the necessity for improvement.
Markkanen’s potential addition to the Warriors lineup promises to bolster their offensive prowess, as evidenced by his remarkable performance with the Jazz, where he evolved into an All-Star and won the Most Improved Player Award. His scoring proficiency, particularly from beyond the arc, aligns with the Warriors’ style of play, characterized by prolific three-point shooting. By sharing the scoring burden with Curry, Markkanen could alleviate pressure on the veteran guard.
Dan Favale of Bleacher Report also endorsed Markkanen as a suitable trade target for the Warriors, envisioning a lineup featuring Curry, Draymond Green, a re-signed Klay Thompson, and Jonathan Kuminga alongside Markkanen. While this combination may not guarantee immediate championship contention, Markkanen’s versatility and scoring ability offer the Warriors an opportunity to enhance their frontcourt presence and remain competitive in the league.
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