The Lauri Markkanen trade from the Utah Jazz is becoming more of a burden than an asset for the primary league contender team, the Golden State Warriors. With his free agent status, the Jazz front office can’t afford to lose him for less value, since they will ultimately re-sign him on August 7 if he is not traded by August 6. Apparently, the deadline is quite strict, and the Dubs and Jazz have not found middle ground yet. It looks like the Jazz are eyeing the Dubs’ young assets, as per Shams Charania’s report. In particular, Brandin Podziemski is the player the Jazz are looking to get, along with multiple first-round picks, multiple pick swaps, multiple second-round picks, and Moses Moody.

With so much at stake, it seems Dubs owner Joe Lacob does not want to acquire someone whose addition could make his team underperform next season. Lacob confirmed this when asked about the Lauri Markkanen trade on ‘The Athletic NBA Show,‘ stating, “We have incredibly complex models. These guys run about how good we will be and it’s not everything what the press writes all the time or what people say, in the internet blogs.”

Lacob further explained how he would not move forward with Markkanen if it worsened his team. It looks like the Warriors are yearning to make the most of the final years of 36-year-old Stephen Curry‘s prime. Losing young assets like Brandin Podziemski or Jonathan Kuminga would diminish their hopes for a championship run. That’s why Lacob is not enthusiastic about a potential Markkanen trade, as he added, “You can’t make a trade that makes you worse. And then expect to be better.”

How will losing young assets in the Lauri Markkanen trade worsen the Dubs?

Players like Brandin Podziemski and Jonathan Kuminga add depth to the Warriors roster, helping create space for their star players. Podziemski averaged 9.2 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 3.7 assists last season as a shooting guard. His ability to craft creative plays within the three-point line, his floaters, and his 45.4% field goal percentage make him an invaluable asset. Additionally, unique players like him add versatility to the team. So, Lacob might not let go of him in the Markkanen deal if it happens.

Another rumored demand from the Jazz front office was Kuminga. Over the last two years, he has demonstrated his value, averaging 16.1 points and a 53% field goal percentage last season. Such a breakout performance highlights his immense potential and abilities. Therefore, trading Kuminga would mean letting go of a promising future asset for Lacob.

In addition to the trade complications for Lauri Markkanen, the Warriors owner also faces financial issues. With the possibility of hitting their first apron cap and facing imposed restrictions, Lacob must determine his decision on the Lauri Markkanen trade within three weeks. If he doesn’t make a decision within that time, the Dubs will have to make the best of their current roster.

Before you go, though, be sure to check this video of Leonard Armato’s take on the deadly duo, Shaq and Kobe. Don’t forget to check back in for more such updates from our ES Fancast!