The Golden State Warriors are keeping close watch on LeBron James’ contract situation with the Los Angeles Lakers and could make a formal pitch if talks in L.A. remain stalled, according to reporting from Marc Stein and Jake Fischer.
Warriors’ options for James
Golden State views its proximity to James’ Los Angeles residence as a selling point while allowing the four-time MVP to avoid joining the crosstown Clippers. Financial flexibility is limited; the club is projected to have roughly a $15 million mid-level exception, a figure that could shift depending on the futures of Draymond Green and impending free agent Kristaps Porzingis.
The Warriors are expected to finalize a new contract with Porzingis before free agency officially opens on Tuesday. They are also evaluating additional targets, with center Jock Landale and guards Anfernee Simons and Collin Sexton among the names linked to the Bay Area front office.
Cavaliers on track to retain Harden
In Cleveland, a new agreement with James Harden appears imminent. Stein and Fischer report that the Cavaliers remain positioned to lock in the former MVP before Tuesday’s opening of free agency, with an announcement possible at any moment.
Timberwolves targeting Collins
The Minnesota Timberwolves are expected to pursue free-agent forward John Collins as they look to replace Julius Randle. Minnesota faces cap challenges in carving out space for Collins, and competition is anticipated from the Orlando Magic, San Antonio Spurs and Philadelphia 76ers—two clubs, the Spurs and Sixers, that have been linked to several top forwards this offseason.
The NBA’s negotiating window opens on Tuesday, when teams can begin officially signing players and announcing deals.
Source: Hoops Wire
