The Golden State Warriors remain active in their efforts to acquire Anthony Davis — and potentially LeBron James — ahead of free agency, but league sources say one critical obstacle still stands in the way.
Multiple executives told Hoops Wire that the Washington Wizards are open to trading Davis if the right package materializes. However, Washington has shown “little interest” in taking back Jimmy Butler, whose $57 million salary is considered the Warriors’ most practical contract for matching purposes. Without the Wizards’ cooperation on Butler, Golden State would likely need to recruit a third team to facilitate any deal for Davis.
Speculation around the Warriors surged Monday when Draymond Green declined his player option, shortly before the club reached a new two-year agreement with Kristaps Porziņģis. Front-office chatter suggests the move could signal additional roster reshuffling.
ESPN’s Anthony Slater reported that Golden State still expects LeBron James to remain with the Los Angeles Lakers, yet the organization views his contract status as fluid enough to monitor closely. Shams Charania echoed that sentiment, noting the Warriors believe their chances of landing James would rise significantly if they first secured Davis.
Even so, skepticism persists. On Monday, ESPN’s Brian Windhorst said some rival executives doubt any blockbuster will materialize, predicting Davis could stay in Washington, James in Los Angeles, and Green ultimately sign a new deal with Golden State.
For now, the Warriors continue to explore scenarios that could bring one — or both — of the league’s biggest stars to the Bay Area.
Source: Hoops Wire
