Ever since Lauri Markkanen hit the trade rumor mill, one things has been made absolutely crystal clear: the Utah Jazz are not trading him just for the sake of trading him. The Athletic's Shams Charania's latest only further confirms that notion.
In a July 15 story, Charania revealed where the Jazz and Golden State Warriors stand on a potential Markkanen trade. In short, they're at an impasse because both teams have different ideas about what Markkanen should fetch. Charania revealed what the Warriors are willing to give up for him.
"The Golden State Warriors have been the most engaged team for Markkanen in recent weeks, as league sources tell The Athletic they have discussed a proposal around Moses Moody, multiple first-round picks, multiple pick swaps and multiple second-round picks."
Charania then revealed what the Jazz want in exchange for Markkanen, which is why talks haven't progressed between the two teams.
"The Jazz, however, have asked for the bulk of young talent and capital the Warriors possess, including Moody, Jonathan Kuminga, and Brandin Podziemski, along with picks, which has been a non-starter thus far for Golden State, league sources said."
Why the Jazz have leverage in the Lauri Markkanen talks
So, the Jazz want the farm for the 27-year-old star, and why wouldn't they? They have solid reasons for why they don't have to trade him. Since he's just entering his prime, and the Jazz don't have to worry about cap room, they can simply extend him now and then sell him off to the highest bidder if they decide to part ways.
Golden State can undo that situation before it starts, and they have the rare opportunity to get one of the league's most unique stars for cheap. To be fair, that's only for one year, but that's the only year they can get him at an affordable cost.
The Warriors have had a pretty solid offseason, knowing what they lost. However, anyone who looks at their roster can see that they are missing the star power they once wielded in excess in their heyday. Their need for another star is why Markkanen would fit so well.
Odds are, the Warriors know full and well what the Jazz want in return for Markkanen and are only lowballing them as a negotiating tactic. Even if that's the case, the Jazz obviously see right through it and are not budging off their price.