Warriors reportedly lack confidence in signing ex-Laker LeBron James without win-now trade
· Yahoo Sports
Warriors reportedly lack confidence in signing ex-Laker LeBron James without win-now trade originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Golden State Warriors know they are nearing the end of their dynasty with Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Steve Kerr. However, there is a strong belief within the organization that they have one last run at an NBA championship.
Visit afrikasportnews.co.za for more information.
The Warriors are prepared to make a splash in free agency, with LeBron James at the top of their wishlist. Curry reportedly met with James in early June to discuss the possibility of teaming up.
“Pairing him with Stephen Curry is going to be something that the Warriors are going to pursue over the next few weeks… It seemed very doubtful, it seemed low percentage, now it’s kind of questionable. Now there’s going to be some legs to this… That same source told us that Steph is planning on meeting and talking with LeBron about potentially joining the Warriors over the course of the next few weeks leading up to free agency,” NBA insider Brett Siegel said.
James is open to joining any team that gives him a legitimate chance to compete for a championship. Earlier this week, it was reported that he met with Golden State.
“LeBron James is preparing to meet with the Warriors this week as an unrestricted free agent. After Draymond Green opted out today, Golden State has the necessary flexibility to sign LeBron and trade for Anthony Davis. LeBron leaving the Lakers is gaining significant traction,” NBA reporter Evan Sidery wrote.
Even with the growing buzz surrounding the Warriors, the organization reportedly does not believe it is at the top of James' preferred destinations. Because of that, Golden State may need to make a blockbuster trade to convince him to sign.
“The Warriors believe they are currently not at the top of LeBron James’ shortlist, which could make them do an aggressive trade to secure his agreement, per Anthony V. Slater,” Sidery posted. “Golden State has the necessary draft assets to make a win-now trade immediately.”
James is clearly the Warriors' top priority in free agency. Golden State believes it has a legitimate opportunity to contend for another championship, which is why the pursuit of James has become so aggressive.
The Warriors once stood in the way of James' championship aspirations. Years later, they are hoping to unite Curry, Green, and James in one final title pursuit. If it takes a blockbuster trade to make that happen, Golden State appears willing to do whatever it takes.
More NBA news:
- 76ers' Jaylen Brown makes blunt feelings toward Celtics, Brad Stevens clear after lackluster trade
- Warriors predicted to make monster trade for $186M ex-Laker, 10x All-Star to pair with Steph Curry
- Russell Westbrook reportedly marked the start of LeBron James' downfall with the Lakers
- Celtics' Jayson Tatum receives deafening trade update after Jaylen Brown-Paul George 76ers deal