The Golden State Warriors are making moves to strengthen their roster ahead of the upcoming NBA season. According to Tony Jones of The Athletic, the Warriors have a "substantial" trade offer on the table for Utah Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen.

Jones revealed during an interview on 95.7 The Game that Golden State's offer for Markkanen is heavily pick-based. However, the Warriors' limited draft pick assets could complicate negotiations, as they only possess two unprotected picks and a protected first-rounder.

Markkanen, 27, is an enticing target for multiple teams, including the San Antonio Spurs, Sacramento Kings, and Miami Heat, as reported by ESPN's Zach Lowe. The Finnish forward had an impressive season in 2022-23, averaging 23.2 points on 48.0 percent shooting and grabbing 8.2 rebounds per game. He also earned the NBA's Most Improved Player award and made his first-ever All-Star appearance.

For Golden State, acquiring Markkanen would address their need for additional scoring options following the departure of Klay Thompson. With Stephen Curry carrying a significant load, the Warriors are eager to find a player who can alleviate some of the scoring pressure.

The Warriors are determined to bounce back from a disappointing season that saw them finish 10th in the highly competitive Western Conference. They aim to make significant improvements and compete against the tough competition in the West.

Markkanen's versatility and ability to stretch the floor with his shooting would fit seamlessly into the Warriors' fast-paced, three-point oriented style of play. Adding him to their lineup would enhance the team's range and size, providing a valuable boost to their offensive firepower.

However, negotiations for Markkanen's services remain ongoing, as multiple teams vie for his talents. As the Warriors look to finalize a deal, they are well aware of the competition they face in securing the skilled forward.

As the NBA offseason progresses, fans of the Golden State Warriors eagerly await news of whether their team can strike a deal for Lauri Markkanen. Should the trade materialize, the Warriors would considerably bolster their roster, bringing them one step closer to reclaiming their status as title contenders in the Western Conference.