The Golden State Warriors are still searching for a star to pair with Steph Curry after acquiring Dennis Schroder. However, had they gotten their way this past summer, they would have paired him with Utah Jazz star Lauri Markkanen. Instead of being traded to the Warriors, Utah opted to sign him to a 5-year, $238 million extension.
That was something of a surprise decision considering that he is already 27 years old and building a winning team around him will take time. Even if they were able to, it likely wouldn't be during his prime. Of course, the Jazz could have re-signed him with the intention to trade him later on for more assets, but his play this season may throw a wrench into their plans.
Lauri Markkanen is having an interesting season after signing the extension.
— Andy Bailey (@AndrewDBailey) December 12, 2024
His first two seasons in Utah: 26.1 points, 8.9 rebounds, 3.3 threes and a 58.3 eFG%.
This season: 21.3 points, 7.2 rebounds, 2.9 threes and a 53.8 eFG%. https://t.co/IAGAnzi8H6
Markkanen hasn't been the same offensive player this season, with his number dropping significantly compared to last season. That development may come as a relief to the Warriors, who almost gave up significant assets to acquire him from the Jazz. Be that as it may, the Warriors are still looking for a star to pair with Curry, and their options may be limited.
Who should the Golden State Warriors pair Steph Curry with?
The most obvious stars that could be available ahead of the trade deadline are Chicago Bulls stars Zach LaVine and Nikola Vucevic, New Orleans Pelicans star Brandon Ingram, and Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler. Then there is their dream trade target, LeBron James.
His availability is dependent on what the Lakers do to try and build around him and whether he would still demand a trade. The Warriors, of course, hope that he will demand a trade, and if he does, then they would likely move heaven and earth to try and acquire him.
If that scenario plays out, then they will be especially happy that a Markkanen deal didn't happen with many of the assets that would have been used to acquire him instead of being used to acquire LeBron. Even if they don't end up with LeBron, there may be cheaper alternatives that might make more sense than Markkanen for the Warriors.
Butler's lack of shooting and his age at 35 years old might make him a bad fit. while Vucevic's lack of defense might offset what he can bring on the offensive end of the floor. Meanwhile, Ingram is a talented scorer but has had plenty of injury issues and is probably expecting a big payday this summer. As a result, potentially the best fit would be LaVine, despite his ugly contract.
He is a talented scorer and one of the most underrated shooters in the NBA and would give them another offensive weapon. Nevertheless, the Warriors will have to weigh the benefits of him compared to the players they would be sending out, likely including Andrew Wiggins.
Ultimately, the Warriors have more flexibility to make a big move after striking out on Markkanen over the summer. If everything plays out perfectly for Golden State, then they could land a big fish such as LeBron or make another needle-moving deal.