The Golden State Warriors have had a surprisingly low-key off-season thus far but if they get their way, they will soon be making a trade for an all-star. After losing out on Paul George and seeing longtime Warrior Klay Thompson leave for the Dallas Mavericks, Golden State could use a win but instead they got bad news.
The first piece of bad news involves Draymond Green who stated that he plans to play just two more seasons. That will take him through his 15th season with the Warriors and if he follows through on that plan it would leave superstar Steph Curry as the only one of their big three remaining.
Green is not the same player as he once was but he is still a big part of Golden State's offensive and defensive attack and losing him would be a big blow. If that isn't enough, Golden State's primary trade target, Utah Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen may be off the trading block.
The Golden State Warriors have tried to improve their roster but may fall well short.
The Jazz had been shopping Markkanen but there was some doubt as to how serious they were about moving their best player. They clearly want top dollar for their best player and while the Warriors, along with the San Antonio Spurs and Oklahoma City Thunder, have made offers, none of them have met their asking price.
As a result, it appears that Markkanen may be staying put in Utah unless the Jazz are trying to drive up demand for him by pretending as though they won't trade him. By the way, it could be bad news for the Warriors. If Utah is serious about not trading Markkanen, Golden State will enter next season with a seemingly subpar roster that is not much better than the team that missed the playoffs last year.
If Utah is trying to get teams to offer more, the Warriors may be forced to part with Jonathan Kaminga, Moses Moody, and some combination of three first round picks and three pick swaps. Even still, that might not be enough to get them back into title contention, let alone the playoffs.
All in all, if better options don't present themselves, then Golden State would be better served heading into the season without making another big move and seeing who might become available around the trade deadline.