The Golden State Warriors might have a realistic shot to land LeBron James in free agency if things go according to plan. A difficult season for Golden State saw the plans to contend for another NBA Championship with Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler failing them. Both players have dealt with injuries, and Butler is not expected to return until deep into next season. However, the Warriors hope to land a star via free agency or a trade this summer.
Golden State beat writer Tim Kawakami said the following about the team’s interest in LeBron:
“The LeBron/Warriors rumors have percolated for years. Same financial story: He’d likely have to take a pay cut down to $15 million to consider the Warriors.
The Warriors and Lakers could also work a sign-and-trade deal, which would elevate LeBron’s salary, but that would take trading either Butler, Draymond, or Porzingis to the Lakers, and I don’t think that’s workable for anybody.”
Kawakami confirmed a couple of big points that James would have to take a pay cut, and the trade scenarios are not ideal. However, he does forecast that Golden State will be a player in the LeBron sweepstakes if he decides to keep playing for at least one more season.
Why This Is Good News For Warriors
The report references that no one knows for sure what James wants to do once the season ends. LeBron could easily opt to retire without a farewell tour or could quickly re-sign with the Lakers. The team’s recent success and offseason improvements could tempt James to retire in Los Angeles.
However, the financial side sees Kawakami claiming that he believes the Warriors would be able to offer LeBron as much as $15 million. Lakers management reportedly wants James to take a bigger pay cut to use their cap space to sign new rotation players that fit better around Luka Doncic. Austin Reaves will also require a max contract extension in free agency.
The Cleveland Cavaliers are the other team most rumored to want LeBron for a retirement tour, but they would require him to take a minimum contract after they extend James Harden. Rumors suggest Harden will get close to $40 million per year on a two-year deal. Golden State could realistically have the best financial offer for the icon.
Warriors Have Interest In Other HOFers
LeBron is not the only massive name that Golden State wants to look at this summer. Kawakami’s report also named Kawhi Leonard if he and the Los Angeles Clippers are ready to part ways after they traded away Harden to end their title contending dreams.
Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo is another name still on the Warriors’ radar. Pundits expect the Bucks to finally trade Giannis this summer after the co-owners said a deal is likely if he doesn’t sign a contract extension.
Golden State will be active to add a star like Antetokounmpo, James, or Leonard to give franchise superstar Curry another chance at a title. Time will tell if they have enough assets for a trade or enough confidence from the players to sign in free agency.
Warriors Get Positive Update On LeBron James’ Free Agency