Exposure: The Possibility of Curry and Markkanen Teaming Up Still Exists—Warriors Would Rather Trade Kuminga If Forced to Choose

It is reported that the Golden State Warriors are still attempting to acquire Lauri Markkanen through a trade. Earlier, it was mentioned in previous reports that the Warriors were indeed interested in Markkanen but were willing to part with limited assets. However, according to renowned sports journalist Marc Stein on Sunday, the Utah Jazz have a strong interest in Brandon Pozimski, which keeps the possibility of Markkanen joining the Warriors alive. At the same time, “an increasing number of people around the league believe” that the Warriors would rather trade James Wiseman (referred to here as Kuminga) compared to Pozimski. “However, it must be noted that the Warriors’ offer for Markkanen primarily revolves around Moses Moody and draft picks, not including Pozimski or Wiseman,” Stein added. The Warriors certainly value Wiseman, who broke out last season, but they may place more importance on Pozimski. On Wednesday, after the Warriors defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers in the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas, owner Joe Lacob spoke about Pozimski, saying, “Honestly, he’s been quite impressive. I think we have a future All-Star player on our hands, which is really exciting.” Of course, this is not the first time this summer that Wiseman’s name has come up in reported trade talks. In early July, the Warriors refused to include him in discussions regarding a trade for Paul George with the Los Angeles Clippers. However, if the Warriors want to acquire a player like Markkanen, they will likely have to offer more than just Moody and draft picks. According to prominent sports journalist Shams Charania, the Jazz’s asking price includes Pozimski, Wiseman, Moody, and draft capital.