After missing out on Lauri Markkanen, who recently signed a contract extension with the Utah Jazz, the Golden State Warriors have decided not to pursue other high-profile trade targets such as Brandon Ingram of the New Orleans Pelicans or Zach LaVine of the Chicago Bulls. Both players are seen as expensive options under the constraints of the NBA’s new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). LaVine has three years and $138 million left on his contract, while Ingram is seeking a lucrative extension after his current deal expires next year .
The Warriors, comfortable with their current 14-man roster, are focusing on internal development and smaller-scale trades rather than acquiring another All-Star-level player. They have added role players like Buddy Hield and De’Anthony Melton during the offseason and are relying on the growth of younger players like Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody .
This strategy aligns with the team’s intention to maintain roster depth and avoid the financial strain associated with multiple max contracts. The Warriors may explore trade opportunities closer to the February deadline if necessary.