The Golden State Warriors have not given up on LeBron James just yet, and they might be preparing a massive move to jump on top of his list.
According to NBA Insider Anthony V Slater, the Warriors continue to get hints that they remain on LeBron’s shortlist. But the problem is, they don’t think they are leading that race anymore.
“They continue to get indications that they’re on LeBron James’ shortlist. But I’m hearing there’s a growing belief within the organization that they may not be at the top of that shortlist. If they’re unable to land LeBron, they’re probably looking at a roster that remains relatively stable.”
“They’ve re-signed De’Anthony Melton, Kristaps Porzingis, and Al Horford. Draymond Green is also expected to return. But there are people around the league looking at the Warriors’ draft assets, looking at the way they strategically structured Kristaps Porziņģis’ contract, and wondering whether they can put together a trade package that could lure LeBron James.”
If the Warriors believed that LeBron was just inches away, there would be little reason to change the roster before he arrives. But if they think that other teams have gained an edge, the Warriors might have to create a situation that would make it impossible for LeBron to ignore.
The Warriors control their own draft picks for the next seven years. That gives them four first-round picks to trade and three swaps as well. That’s a massive arsenal in today’s trade market, and the Warriors can definitely make a few moves that would make them the perfect destination for The King.
The Warriors have been linked to Anthony Davis, with reports suggesting that they could pursue the All-Star big man to lure LeBron. But they would need a commitment from LeBron before they make such a move. They also resigned Kristaps Porzingis on a team-friendly deal, and Draymond Green declined his player option to sign a longer deal that would favor the Warriors.
But none of those moves would guarantee LeBron’s arrival just yet.
Not with the kind of moves other contenders have made in the last couple of weeks. The Philadelphia 76ers have just become one of the most attractive destinations after the arrival of Jaylen Brown. Combined with Tyrese Maxey, VJ Edgecombe, and Joel Embiid. This lineup gives LeBron an opportunity to join a loaded roster in a relatively wide-open Eastern Conference.
The Cleveland Cavaliers continue to hover around the top of LeBron’s ideal destinations. They have one of the deeper rosters in the league, and LeBron’s ties to the team remain obvious. The Cavaliers also feature a top-heavy lineup featuring Donovan Mitchell, James Harden, Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen.
The Warriors are not completely out of the race just yet.
From a basketball standpoint, the fit between LeBron and Stephen Curry would be a dream come true for fans. Watching two of the greatest players share the floor every night would be one of the NBA’s biggest attractions.
There are major concerns, though.
Curry is 38, LeBron is 41, Green is 36, and Al Horford is 40, and much of the Warriors’ rotation features veterans or injury-prone stars. There is very little margin for injuries, especially over an 82-game season.
The last time LeBron played on a roster around aging stars was the 2021-22 Lakers, and they struggled to stay healthy and never found consistency. That would surely be on the back of LeBron’s mind.
The Warriors have understood the challenge and are gearing up to make big moves. The roster they have today can keep them in the conversation, but the roster they build in the next few days could determine LeBron’s decision.
