The Golden State Warriors are going to look at adding a superstar player this summer. After missing the playoffs this season, the team has some big needs that they need to address. Without Stephen Curry, they had no chance offensively.
Curry only played 38 games this season, while Jimmy Butler tore his ACL midway through the year. It’s clear that even when both star players are healthy, they need more if they are going to make another run at a championship. That is why they will be going after another superstar.
One bold prediction has them adding LeBron James in an unconventional manner this summer.
GettyLos Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James dribbles the ball. (Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images)
Warriors Predicted to Land LeBron James in Sign-And-Trade
Dan Favale of Bleacher Report gave a bold prediction for Golden State to land James via a sign-and-trade. That would give them another aging superstar, but he would once again be the third option. He was the third option this season with the Lakers.
“Acquiring LeBron via sign-and-trade hard-caps teams at the first apron, which excludes the Denvers, Clevelands, and New Yorks of the world. The Golden State Warriors could make it work,” Favale wrote.
James would likely be the third on the list of superstars for the Warriors. They would prefer to get either Giannis Antetokounmpo or Kawhi Leonard ahead of James. Those two players are both younger and better at this point in their careers, although both have an injury risk.
It’s highly unlikely that James returns to Los Angeles for next season. No matter where he plays, he will have to take an enormous pay cut. He likely understands that, which will help him when it comes to figuring out what team works best for him.
For the Warriors, having James, who is one of the smartest players to ever play in the NBA, play with Curry would be great. Curry would be able to run a pick-and-roll with James that would be very effective. James’ ability to pass would allow Curry to play off the ball, as well.
GettyGolden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry holds the ball. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
Golden State Will be Active in the Trade Market
The Warriors are going to make several calls around the league. They have plenty of assets that other teams would be happy to have, especially when it comes to future first-round draft picks. They need to get a better frontcourt next season, which was a big problem.
Golden State was just 19th in offense during the regular season. A large reason for that is because of the multiple injuries the team had to deal with. Adding someone like James would likely increase the probability that they deal with injuries, however.
It will be up to Mike Dunleavy Jr. to make the right call at the end of Curry’s career. With Steve Kerr locked up for the next couple of years, those will be the final seasons that the Warriors have a shot to contend for a championship.
Warriors Receive Bold Prediction to Land LeBron James in Unconventional Way