The Golden State Warriors had a lengthy offseason, having bid farewell to Klay Thompson at the start of the summer and then attempting to sign Paul George and Lauri Markkanen. In particular, a trade for the star player of the Utah Jazz was feasible, but it was eventually unsuccessful because the Warriors allegedly refused to part ways with Brandin Podziemski or Jonathan Kuminga.

If all went according to plan, Markkanen would have gone to Utah in return for a significant portion of Golden State’s roster. More specifically, with Kuminga, Podziemski, and Moses Moody all mentioned in ideal returns for the Jazz, the chunk would have primarily consisted of the youthful core of the Warriors.

The Warriors ultimately made the decision to hold off on dealing any of their young players, and Markkanen committed to a long-term deal with the Jazz. Kuminga claims that illustrates how much Mike Dunleavy Jr., general manager of Golden State, believes in them.

On the “TK Show,” Kuminga stated, “I feel like Mike believes in the young guys he’s drafted, the young guys he’s been around. It’s not too many people that believe in young players.” He observes them during practice to see how well they get along with some of our veterinarians. Being here is a blessing, and I’m grateful that Mike believes in us and that I’m here. Of course, I don’t think he made a poor decision. I see Moses, I see myself, I see Trayce, and I see Brandin working. I think we’ll have a bright future if we stick together more.

Golden State was busy in the summer even though the Finnish forward did not sign with the Bay and Thompson left the organization in free agency after more than ten years.

The Warriors acquired Kyle Anderson and Buddy Hield from the Minnesota Timberwolves and Philadelphia 76ers, respectively, as part of Thompson’s sign-and-trade to the Dallas Mavericks. De’Anthony Melton, who averaged 11 points per game for the 76ers the previous season, was also signed by Golden State.It remains to be seen, though, how much the newcomers will be able to assist the Warriors. Even with Stephen Curry’s second straight All-NBA season and Tristan Thompson’s better play following the All-Star break, Golden State tied for ninth place in the Western Conference and was eliminated by the Sacramento Kings in the Play-In round.

The Warriors will go to Portland to begin their 2024–25 campaign. It just so happens that Markkanen and the Jazz will face Golden State in the first meeting of the season for both clubs.