Warriors tried to recruit LeBron before free-agency decision
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The Golden State Warriors made an early push to sign LeBron James this summer, according to ESPN’s Anthony Slater. Draymond Green vacationed with James, Stephen Curry personally reached out, and team governor Joe Lacob sent agent Rich Paul a voice note outlining the franchise’s interest.
Limited traction despite larger offer
Golden State could have topped the veteran minimum and even discussed a plan allowing James to split time between the Bay Area and Los Angeles. Still, team insiders told ESPN they never sensed the four-time MVP seriously weighing the move. Sources said James’ multiple NBA Finals clashes with the Warriors during the 2010s made joining a long-time rival less appealing.
The Warriors asked James’ camp whether a specific roster move would secure his commitment; the answer was no. Around the league, executives believed a high-end addition—such as acquiring Jaylen Brown—might have changed the calculus. A separate pursuit of Anthony Davis was ruled out because of Washington’s expected asking price.
Roster largely unchanged
After missing on James, Golden State will field a group similar to last season’s 37-win squad. Green, Kristaps Porziņģis and Al Horford return, while De’Anthony Melton received a new two-year contract over Anfernee Simons.
The club contacted Rui Hachimura’s representatives early in free agency but could not match the Clippers’ two-year, $28 million offer without moving Moses Moody or asking Green to take a pay cut—options the team considered only if James had agreed to sign.
Front office says it remains aggressive
Despite outside perceptions that the franchise is content to coast through Curry’s later seasons, team executives insist cap flexibility and draft assets position them to act quickly when star talent becomes available. While reluctant to trade first-round picks for marginal upgrades, the Warriors are prepared to use them for proven impact players.
Draft-night maneuvering
Slater reports Boston contacted Golden State before the draft, offering four first-rounders—including the No. 11 pick—and a future swap for Jaylen Brown. The Warriors declined and talks never advanced.
Head coach Steve Kerr favored Arizona guard Brayden Burries and reportedly groaned when Milwaukee selected him at No. 10, one spot before Golden State. Kerr is also high on forward Yaxel Lendeborg and is open to starting the rookie if he earns the role in camp.
A viral clip showed Lacob and general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. in animated discussion while on the clock at No. 11. Slater confirms Lacob pushed to select Lendeborg—the consensus choice—while Dunleavy fielded last-minute trade inquiries. Charlotte was ready to send No. 14 and an unspecified future pick for No. 11, and Oklahoma City floated future second-rounders to move from No. 12.
Future contracts
League sources say both Curry and the Warriors want to negotiate an extension once he becomes eligible in late August. Nearly every other player on the roster could be in play over the next year.
Source: Hoops Rumors
