Warriors Have Reached Out Repeatedly About Potential LeBron James Deal
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LOS ANGELES — The Golden State Warriors have contacted the Los Angeles Lakers on “multiple occasions” over the past 18 months to explore a trade for LeBron James, league insider Jake Fischer reported.
James, 40, exercised his player option for the 2025-26 season but previously questioned whether the Lakers’ roster was strong enough to contend for another NBA title. Despite that uncertainty, he has not requested a trade, and the Lakers have shown no interest in moving him. Any deal would also need James’ approval because of his full no-trade clause.
Golden State is believed to be interested in pairing James with Stephen Curry after the two enjoyed playing together for Team USA during last summer’s Olympic gold-medal run under Warriors head coach Steve Kerr. The Warriors have a history of pursuing major stars, dating back to their successful recruitment of Kevin Durant in 2016 and their February acquisition of Jimmy Butler.
If a trade ever materialized, Fischer noted that a one-for-one swap of Butler for James could be the simplest framework, though such a move appears unlikely from the Lakers’ perspective. Other scenarios could emerge if Golden State signs restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga to a significant contract, but that step has not been taken.
For now, expectations around the league are that James will open training camp with the Lakers. Should the season unfold poorly in Los Angeles, talks could be revisited before the trade deadline in February.
Upcoming Matchups on National TV
The Lakers and Warriors are set to meet on Opening Night, and ESPN has picked up a preseason matchup between the Pacific Division rivals.
Source: Lakers Nation
