Warriors ‘Number One Target’ Lauri Markkanen Reportedly Considering Reduced Salary to Join Golden State

Rumors swirl around NBA star Lauri Markkanen as the Kings, Warriors, and Spurs show interest in a potential trade. Markkanen is also reported to consider reduced salary to join Warriors.

Published on Jul 04, 2024  |  04:01 PM IST |  175.1K
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Warriors eye Markkanen

The Golden State Warriors are swiftly adjusting their roster following the departure of Klay Thompson, as they set their sights on acquiring the Utah Jazz rising star Lauri Markkanen. The ball is in the bay area team’s court as Markkanen is considering a reduced pay to join in. 

Heading towards the offseason, the NBA trade rumors are heating up as the Warriors, Sacramento Kings, and San Antonio Spurs are all making substantial offers in an attempt to secure the talented forward, Lauri Markkanen, from the Utah Jazz. 

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Lauri Markkanen considering reduced pay to join Warriors

The coveted 2023 NBA All-Star and Most Improved Player has garnered significant interest from multiple teams, with the aforementioned three franchises making notable moves to acquire him. 

According to Monte Poole of NBC Sports, the Warriors have identified Markkanen as their "Number One Target" in the trade market, signaling their determination to bolster their lineup amidst Thompson's relocation to the Dallas Mavericks via a sign-and-trade.


Markkanen's impressive performance during the 2023-24 NBA season, where he averaged 23.2 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game with strong shooting percentages, has elevated his value and drawn attention from teams looking to bolster their roster. Additionally, as per The Monty Show, it was also reported that Lauri Markkaned is willing to accept a reduced salary to join the Warriors. 

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The Kings, on the other hand, are also actively involved in negotiations, showcasing their determination to secure the sought-after forward. These developments come at a time when both teams are looking to make significant moves in the market, with the Warriors signing notable players and the Kings making strategic draft and trade decisions. 

Reports from Michael Scotto of HoopsHype also suggest that Utah would only consider dealing away Markkanen in exchange for a package akin to the significant deal orchestrated between the New York Knicks and the Brooklyn Nets for Mikal Bridges. 

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Warriors have to pick between Jonathan Kuminga and Lauri Markkanen

The Golden State Warriors find themselves at a critical juncture as they navigate the possibility of acquiring Lauri Markkanen while potentially parting ways with the promising young talent Jonathan Kuminga. Markkanen has emerged as the top target for the Warriors in the offseason, with reports suggesting that the team is actively pursuing the All-Star big man. 

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However, securing Markkanen will not come without its challenges, as the Jazz are reportedly reluctant to part ways with the talented young forward without a substantial offer on the table. 


Additionally, this pursuit raises the question of whether the Warriors are willing to sacrifice Kuminga, who is considered a crucial asset for both the present and the future of the team. NBA insider Michael Scotto indicates that the Warriors are faced with the dilemma of potentially trading Kuminga to secure a player of Markkanen’s caliber, highlighting the delicate balance between short-term gains and long-term prospects for the franchise.


Amidst the intensifying race for Markkanen, it has been revealed that the Warriors, the Sacramento Kings, and the San Antonio Spurs are the frontrunners in this trade saga. Each team has reportedly presented substantial offers to acquire the services of Markkanen. 

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About The Author

Nitish Singh is a Sports Content Writer at Pinkvilla and covers all things NBA. Apart from following

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