Report: Spurs Make A Bold Step To Sign Kings Star In A Blockbuster Trade

Lauri Markkanen, a forward with the Utah Jazz, is the player most wanted in NBA trade rumors this summer. NBA teams like the Sacramento Kings, Golden State Warriors, and San Antonio Spurs are reportedly inquiring about Utah in trade, but the talks are apparently not going well.

Although Markkanen isn’t on the trade block, Utah has made it rather apparent that he might be moved if the right offer materializes. In particular, the Jazz are looking for a young player who might form the team’s long-term nucleus together with a package of future first-round picks. It seems that not a single one of their trade partners is willing to take that kind of bargain for a one-year rental.

The Warriors are reportedly unwilling to trade Jonathan Kuminga unless they receive an All-NBA player in exchange, according to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype. Even though Golden State is among the teams pursuing Markkanen the hardest, it doesn’t appear possible to include Kuminga.

Apparently, Utah wouldn’t fare any better in Sacramento or San Antonio. Keegan Murray is apparently seen by the Kings as a “core piece” that cannot be traded. Devin Vassell, meanwhile, is regarded by the Spurs front office as a key player, and they will not deal him for Markkanen.

Related: The San Antonio Spurs are considering pairing their All-Star center forward with Victor Wembanyama.

Career statistics for Lauri Markkanen (ESPN): 18.1 points, 7.3 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 45.9% field goal percentage, and 37.5% 3PT
The CEO of Utah’s basketball department Danny Ainge is well-known.

As per Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, the Warriors are unwilling to trade Jonathan Kuminga unless they get an All-NBA player in exchange. Even if Golden State is among Markkanen’s most assertive admirers, it doesn’t seem possible to include Kuminga.

Utah would obviously not do any better in Sacramento or San Antonio. According to reports, Keegan Murray is seen by the Kings as a “core piece” that cannot be traded. Devin Vassell is seen as a key player by the Spurs front office, and they will not deal him for Markkanen.

Related: The San Antonio Spurs are considering pairing Victor Wembanyama with an All-Star big man.

ESPN career statistics for Lauri Markkanen: 18.1 points, 7.3 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 45.9% field goal percentage, and 37.5% Third Party
The CEO of basketball operations for Utah Danny Ainge is a familiar face.