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If the Warriors are serious in acquiring Lauri Markkanen from the Jazz, they will need to trade either Brandin Podziemski or Jonathan Kuminga.
Longtime NBA insider Marc Stein stated on Substack that there is a “growing belief leaguewide” that the Warriors are more prepared to trade Kuminga than Podziemski.
He also expressed his thoughts on each of the rising star’s existing contracts.
“Beyond how highly Golden State rates the 21-year-old and his all-around game, Podziemski also has three seasons left on his rookie contract worth nearly $13 million as the No. 19 overall pick in June 2023,” Stein noted in an email. “Kuminga, meanwhile, is instantly eligible for a hefty contract extension between now and Oct. 21 as the seventh overall pick.
From a 2021 draft class that has already seen Detroit [Pistons’] Cade Cunningham, Cleveland [Cavaliers’] Evan Mobley, Toronto [Raptors’] Scottie Barnes, and Orlando [Magic’s] Franz Wagner sign deals for more than $200 million.” According to Stein, Podziemski’s contract runs concurrently with Draymond Green’s and Andrew Wiggins’ big contracts.
Furthermore, his ability to play with Steph Curry makes him an invaluable asset to the squad.
“Podziemski has quickly proven to be a high-level complement to face of the franchise Stephen Curry and isn’t eligible for a massive raise until after the current contracts held by Draymond Green and Andrew Wiggins expire in the summer of 2027,” according to Stein. “That is a critical factor for Golden State in the NBA’s new world of luxury.
Tax aprons.
“Podz” has had a significant impact on the Golden State Warriors in his short tenure and is “beloved organizationally,” according to Anthony Slater of The Athletic.
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