NBA trade rumors: Golden State Warriors predicted to land $240 million Utah Jazz star center to support Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler

The Golden State Warriors continue to operate with urgency in 2026, and Jaren Jackson Jr. has become one of the most discussed names in trade conversations. The Utah Jazz only acquired the two-way big man on February 3 in a major deal with Memphis, but league chatter suggests Golden State explored serious talks before shifting focus elsewhere.

Even after the deadline, the idea of a future Warriors-Jazz deal has not fully disappeared.Jackson is under contract with Utah through the 2028-29 season after signing a four-year extension worth about $205 million in 2025. His cap hit for 2025-26 sits near $35 million. Utah gave up three future first-round picks along with several rotation players to acquire him, so the team is not expected to move him unless the return is substantial.

For now, he is part of a frontcourt built around Lauri Markkanen and Walker Kessler.

What a Warriors-Jazz Trade Might Look Like

If Golden State Warriors revisits the idea, the offer would likely center on young players and draft picks.

Warriors receive:

• Jaren Jackson Jr. (F/C, 26, $35M cap hit) • John Konchar (G, 29, $6.2M, 3-and-D wing)

Jazz receive (hypothetical):

• Jonathan Kuminga (PF, 23, projected $20M-25M, UFA after 2026) [This prospect was thought of before Kuminga got traded] • Moses Moody (SG/SF, 23, two-way wing on $11.5M)

• Brandin Podziemski (SG, 22, $3.7M, starting guard) • 2026 first-round pick (top-14 protected) • 2029 first-round pick (unprotected)The structure reflects the type of package typically required for an established two-way big in his prime.

Why Golden State Would Want Jaren Jackson Jr.

Golden State’s timeline is clear. Stephen Curry, now 37, still produces at a high level, and Draymond Green remains central to the defense. What the roster lacks is a reliable interior defender who can also space the floor.Jaren Jackson offers both.He averages about 2.2 blocks for his career and is recording roughly 1.7 blocks and 1.5 steals this season. He shoots around 34-35% from three and makes about two per game, which fits Golden State’s spacing. At 26, he also provides a bridge between the current core and the next phase of the roster.A lineup featuring Curry, Podziemski, Jimmy Butler, Green, and Jackson would add length and defensive range without sacrificing shooting.

Why Utah Jazz Might Listen

Utah Jazz invested heavily to get Jackson, so any deal would need to strengthen the roster long term.Kuminga brings scoring potential and athleticism at 23. Moody and Podziemski are young perimeter players on manageable contracts who fit a team focused on shooting and defense. Two first-round picks would help recover some of the draft capital already spent.Moving Jackson would also remove about $35 million from the payroll, giving the front office more flexibility if it decides to reshape the roster around Markkanen and Kessler.

Pros and Cons of the Deal

Golden State Warriors

Pros • Immediate improvement in rim protection • A frontcourt player who can shoot • A move that supports another title pushCons • Loss of three young rotation players • Large salary commitment • Possible overlap with Kristaps Porziņģis and Quinten Post

Utah Jazz

Pros • Adds multiple young players with upside • Restores draft flexibility • Creates financial roomCons • Gives up a rare two-way big • Risks negative reaction after his strong start, including a 22-point debut • Injury history remains a concern

Jaren Jackson Jr. - 2025-26 stats (Utah Jazz)

Hypothetical Golden State Warriors Trade Package Demographics

Who Benefits More?

If the deal is judged strictly on assets, Utah could benefit by turning one star into three young players and two first-round picks while improving financial flexibility.

Jackson’s injury history adds another layer to that calculation.Also read: NBA trade rumors: Los Angeles Lakers potentially eyeing $80 million Houston Rockets star to for iconic trio with LeBron James and Luka DoncicFor Golden State, the trade would be a direct bet on the present. If Jackson stays healthy and fits the system, the team strengthens its position in the title race. If the move does not work, the cost would be felt in both depth and future roster building.