Pacific Division Roundup: Warriors Nearly Traded for Kawhi, Plan Summer Pursuit
warriors-kawhi-kerr-lebron-williams-update
The Golden State Warriors came close to landing Kawhi Leonard before February’s trade deadline, according to multiple league insiders who spoke with Tim Kawakami of The San Francisco Standard. The Warriors and Los Angeles Clippers reportedly reached a general framework for a deal, but the Clippers ultimately pulled out of negotiations.
Those same sources expect Golden State to resume its “big-game” search this offseason, with Leonard remaining on the team’s wish list. The two-time Finals MVP is set to enter the 2026-27 season on a $50.3 million expiring contract, a figure that could be voided depending on the outcome of the NBA’s ongoing investigation into his promotional partnership with the now-bankrupt green-banking firm Aspiration.
Kawakami added that he anticipates head coach Steve Kerr will return to the Warriors bench next season, though he labeled that stance speculative. Owner Joe Lacob, general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. and star guard Stephen Curry all want Kerr back, Kawakami noted.
Investigation into Clippers, Aspiration Continues
ESPN’s Baxter Holmes reported that league interviews related to the Clippers-Aspiration probe are still underway, with no timetable for completion. Holmes also outlined the factors investigators are weighing while assessing Leonard’s endorsement agreement.
Rich Paul Dismisses LeBron Speculation
Agent Rich Paul told the “Game Over” podcast that rumors about LeBron James’ plans beyond the 2025-26 season are unfounded. “He don’t know either,” Paul said, adding that neither he nor the Lakers forward has discussed next year while James enjoys playing alongside his son during Los Angeles’ current 12-1 stretch.
Mark Williams Nears Return for Suns
Phoenix center Mark Williams, sidelined since March 3 with a left foot stress reaction, has been upgraded to questionable for Thursday’s game in Charlotte. The fourth-year big man missed the Suns’ first meeting with his former team earlier this month; Arizona Sports 98.7’s John Gambadoro expects Williams to suit up against the Hornets.
Source: HoopsRumors
