Blockbuster Trade Aftermath: Lakers Land Markkanen, Warriors Snag Reaves, Jazz Bet Big on Kuminga

The NBA offseason has been a slow burn for the Golden State Warriors, with the ongoing saga surrounding restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga dragging on without resolution. Kuminga, who turned down the Warriors’ contract offer, has attracted interest from other teams, but none have met Golden State’s steep asking price for a sign-and-trade. Meanwhile, the Warriors have been unable to secure major free agent targets or bolster their roster beyond the 2025 draft. However, a proposed blockbuster three-team trade, outlined by Sports Illustrated’s Alan Goldsher, could shake up the Western Conference and provide a path forward for all involved.

The Trade Breakdown

In this hypothetical deal, the Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Lakers, and Utah Jazz would execute a trade that reshapes their respective rosters:

Golden State Warriors receive: Austin Reaves (from the Lakers)

Utah Jazz receive: Jonathan Kuminga (from the Warriors), Rui Hachimura (from the Lakers), a 2030 first-round pick (from the Warriors), and a 2029 first-round pick (from the Lakers)

Los Angeles Lakers receive: Lauri Markkanen (from the Jazz)

To make the salaries match, additional players and potentially more draft capital would likely be required, but the framework of this trade offers significant upside for all three teams.

Lakers Bolster Their Star Power

For the Los Angeles Lakers, acquiring Lauri Markkanen would be a game-changer. The 7-foot Finnish forward, who averaged 23.2 points and 8.2 rebounds per game for the Jazz last season, would join LeBron James and Luka Doncic to form a formidable trio. Markkanen’s ability to stretch the floor with his 39.9% three-point shooting and contribute on both ends would complement the Lakers’ star-driven system. While parting with Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura is a steep price, the addition of a proven All-Star like Markkanen could elevate the Lakers to true championship contention. Despite their reluctance to move Reaves this offseason, the opportunity to land a player of Markkanen’s caliber might be too tempting to pass up.

Warriors Add Offensive Firepower

The Warriors, desperate to maximize Stephen Curry’s championship window, would gain a dynamic young guard in Austin Reaves. The 27-year-old averaged 15.9 points, 5.5 assists, and 4.3 rebounds last season, showcasing his ability to create off the dribble and knock down shots from deep (36.6% from three). Paired with Curry, Reaves would form a lethal offensive backcourt, capable of torching defenses with their shooting and playmaking. Alongside Jimmy Butler and Draymond Green, Reaves could help the Warriors address their need for secondary scoring and play creation. However, the Warriors would still need to address their center position and depth to round out their roster and solidify their status as serious contenders in the 2025-26 season.

Jazz Invest in Youth

For the Utah Jazz, this trade aligns with their ongoing rebuild. Jonathan Kuminga, a 22-year-old forward with immense athleticism and upside, would become a cornerstone for their future. Kuminga averaged 16.1 points and 4.8 rebounds last season, and his potential as a two-way star makes him an ideal fit for a young, developing roster. Rui Hachimura, a versatile forward, adds immediate scoring punch, while the two first-round picks (2029 from the Lakers and 2030 from the Warriors) provide valuable assets for Utah’s long-term plans. While losing Markkanen is a significant blow, the Jazz’s focus on youth and flexibility makes this trade a strategic move to build around players like Kuminga and Lauri’s eventual successor.

Challenges and Considerations

This blockbuster trade is not without hurdles. Salary matching will require additional players, and the Lakers’ attachment to Reaves could complicate negotiations. The Warriors’ high asking price for Kuminga reflects their belief in his potential, and parting with a 2030 first-round pick adds risk to their side of the deal. For the Jazz, moving on from Markkanen, a proven star, for a package centered on potential is a gamble, albeit one that fits their timeline. All three teams would need to weigh the immediate and long-term implications carefully.

The Road Ahead

If this trade comes to fruition, it could reshape the Western Conference landscape. The Lakers would boast a star-studded lineup with Markkanen, James, and Doncic, positioning them as favorites to compete for a title. The Warriors, with Reaves slotting into their backcourt, would remain a dangerous playoff contender, provided they address their frontcourt needs. The Jazz, meanwhile, would double down on their rebuild, betting on Kuminga’s growth and future draft capital to pave the way for success.

As the Warriors await resolution on Kuminga’s future, this proposed trade offers a bold solution to their offseason woes. Whether it materializes or not, it’s clear that Golden State, Los Angeles, and Utah are all searching for ways to redefine their paths in a highly competitive NBA landscape.