Lauri Markkanen: The Golden State Warriors’ Potential Game-Changer

The Golden State Warriors have long been known for their impeccable teamwork, elite shooting, and unmatched basketball IQ, all anchored by the brilliance of Stephen Curry and Draymond Green. However, recent rumors have sparked intrigue and excitement in the NBA community with the possibility of the Warriors acquiring Lauri Markkanen, a 7-foot offensive powerhouse currently playing for the Utah Jazz. While the NBA world is aware of Markkanen’s talents, a closer look reveals just how much of a game-changer he could be for the Warriors.

The Shooting Specialist With Size

Lauri Markkanen’s size is one of his most unique traits. Standing at 7 feet tall, Markkanen isn’t just your typical big man who dominates around the basket. His shooting ability is reminiscent of elite three-point specialists, making him a nightmare matchup for defenses across the league. As demonstrated in plays where he curls around screens and quickly fires off three-pointers, his ability to shoot with precision and speed is comparable to guards half his size.

For a team like Golden State that thrives on spacing and outside shooting, Markkanen would fit in perfectly. The Warriors’ offensive system, built around moving the ball and creating open shots for their sharpshooters, would unlock even more of Markkanen’s potential. In contrast to traditional centers who primarily operate in the paint, Markkanen stretches the floor, dragging defenders away from the basket and opening driving lanes for Curry, Green, and the rest of the Warriors’ playmakers.

More Than Just a Shooter

While Markkanen’s shooting alone makes him a valuable asset, it’s his versatility that truly sets him apart. His ability to put the ball on the floor and attack the rim is another layer that could make the Warriors’ offense even more dynamic. As demonstrated in one particular play, after catching the ball from a screen, Markkanen attacked the closeout by Josh Hart, blew by him, and threw down a vicious dunk. This highlights his ability to not only shoot but also punish defenders who overcommit on closeouts.

For the Warriors, who have seen success with players capable of doing both—shooting from the perimeter and finishing at the rim—Markkanen would add another element to their already versatile roster. His ability to dunk with force, particularly in transition or off drives, adds an additional dimension that makes him more than just a shooting threat.

Elite Company in Scoring Efficiency

Lauri Markkanen has been quietly putting up stellar numbers, especially during his time with the Utah Jazz. Over his two seasons in Utah, he has averaged 24.5 points per game with a remarkable 63.5% true shooting percentage. To put that in perspective, the only other players in the league over that time to average at least 23 points per game on 63% true shooting are Joel Embiid, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Kevin Durant, Steph Curry, and Nikola Jokic. This places Markkanen in the company of MVP-caliber players.

Pairing Markkanen with Steph Curry, the most efficient guard in NBA history, could be an offensive dream come true for the Warriors. With Curry’s gravity pulling defenders to the perimeter and Markkanen’s ability to score efficiently both inside and out, the two could form one of the most potent scoring duos in the league. The Warriors, known for maximizing the talents of players who can shoot and move without the ball, would undoubtedly elevate Markkanen’s game to new heights.

A Transition Beast

While Markkanen is deadly in the half-court, one of the most exciting aspects of his game is his effectiveness in transition. At 7 feet tall, he can handle the ball coast-to-coast, finishing with finesse or power at the rim. Plays where he grabs a rebound, dribbles down the court, and Euro-steps around defenders before finishing with a soft layup showcase just how special his skill set is.

The Warriors, a team known for their lethal fast break, would benefit greatly from Markkanen’s ability to run the floor. Whether it’s off defensive rebounds or outlet passes, Markkanen’s speed, handles, and finishing ability would make him a nightmare in transition, especially alongside Curry and other athletic wings like Andrew Wiggins. The idea of Markkanen running the floor with the Warriors’ fast-paced offense could make Golden State even more dangerous than they already are.

Post Scoring and Offensive Versatility

Markkanen isn’t just limited to the perimeter and transition play; his post-scoring ability adds another facet to his already diverse offensive game. While the Utah Jazz didn’t run many plays through the post during his time there, Markkanen has shown that he can use his strength and footwork to create scoring opportunities in the paint. Against top defenders like Bam Adebayo, Markkanen has displayed his ability to pivot, fake, and finish at the rim with ease. This added post presence would give the Warriors a reliable option to exploit mismatches, especially when opponents try to guard him with smaller players.

Defensive Potential

One of the common criticisms of Lauri Markkanen is his defense. While he may not be an elite defender, Markkanen has the physical tools to be an impactful player on the defensive end. His 7-foot frame and length allow him to alter shots at the rim, and he has shown decent lateral movement for someone his size. The Warriors, with their defensive schemes and the presence of defensive maestro Draymond Green, would help cover any gaps in Markkanen’s game on that end of the floor.

Playing alongside someone like Green, whose basketball IQ and communication on defense are unparalleled, would allow Markkanen to improve his defensive impact. With Andrew Wiggins’ perimeter defense and Draymond Green’s versatility in the paint, Markkanen wouldn’t be asked to do too much on defense. Instead, he could focus on using his size and mobility to contest shots and provide help defense.

Empty Stats? Think Again

Some critics might point to Markkanen’s stats as “empty” because he played for a non-playoff team in Utah. However, the numbers suggest otherwise. Over the past two seasons, with Markkanen on the floor, the Jazz were +184, a remarkable stat for a team that was intentionally rebuilding and giving significant minutes to young players. This suggests that when Markkanen plays, his team performs well, regardless of their overall record.

Conclusion: A Perfect Fit for the Warriors

If the Golden State Warriors manage to acquire Lauri Markkanen, they would be adding a player who is not only a perfect fit for their system but one who could elevate them back to championship contention. His shooting, versatility, transition play, and ability to thrive alongside elite playmakers like Curry and Green make him an ideal candidate to take the Warriors to the next level.

While Markkanen may not have received the attention he deserves in Utah, playing on the Warriors’ stage would certainly change that. The rest of the NBA would need to take notice because a team featuring Curry, Markkanen, and Green, along with the Warriors’ deep roster, could very well be unstoppable.