In a development that could bring an end to the weeks of trade rumors surrounding Lauri Markkanen and the Golden State Warriors, it seems highly unlikely that the Finnish forward will don the Warriors' jersey this season. According to Yahoo Sports' Jake Fischer, Markkanen does not plan on signing a contract extension with the Utah Jazz before the August 6 deadline, which means he cannot be traded to the Warriors or any other NBA team for the upcoming season.

Markkanen's decision to delay signing an extension with the Jazz until after the deadline strategically aligns with his intention to potentially be traded. As per league sources, if the 24-year-old waits until Wednesday or later to ink his new deal with Utah, he will not be eligible to be traded throughout the 2024-25 season. The collective bargaining agreement dictates that a player cannot be traded until six months after signing a new agreement, placing the eligibility after the February 6 trade deadline.

There are strong indications that Markkanen intends to delay his signature to exploit this trade restriction loophole, as league sources have disclosed to Yahoo Sports. This decision allows Markkanen to retain control over his future and explore potential opportunities in the trade market during the next offseason.

However, it is important to note that Markkanen's contract extension with the Jazz after the August 6 deadline is still uncertain. If he decides not to sign an extension, there remains a possibility for him to be traded to any team before the trade deadline on February 6, 2025.

Nonetheless, recent developments suggest that the 7-foot power forward has expressed his desire to continue his journey with the Jazz, while the team has openly stated its commitment to building around him. This mutual commitment indicates a strong inclination towards a fruitful long-term partnership between Markkanen and the Utah Jazz.

The evolving scenario surrounding Lauri Markkanen's future has captivated NBA fans, with the Finnish forward's potential to shift team dynamics and impact the upcoming season's trade market. As the August 6 deadline approaches, the basketball community eagerly awaits Markkanen's final decision and the subsequent ripple effects it may bring to the NBA landscape.