The Golden State Warriors have repeatedly contacted the Los Angeles Lakers over the last 18 months to explore a potential deal for LeBron James, according to NBA reporter Jake Fischer. Golden State’s interest reportedly stretches back to the 2024 trade deadline, with the goal of pairing James alongside Stephen Curry in the Bay Area.
Fischer said the Warriors “called the Lakers on multiple occasions” to determine if any trade framework could bring James to San Francisco. The pursuit continued even after Adrian Wojnarowski and Ramona Shelburne revealed in February 2024 that Golden State had inquired about the four-time MVP. At that time, agent Rich Paul informed the Warriors that James did not wish to be moved.
James Holds No-Trade Power
James, 39, exercised his $52.6 million player option for the 2025-26 season in June. In a statement to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Paul emphasized that James wants “a realistic chance of winning” while appreciating his eight-year relationship with Lakers governor Jeanie Buss and general manager Rob Pelinka.
During a recent appearance on TylilShow Live, Paul dismissed speculation that a trade request could surface later this summer. “The man has a no-trade clause, end of story,” the agent said, noting that any deal would require James’ explicit approval.
Lakers, Warriors Face Different Off-Season Questions
The Lakers have upgraded their roster by adding Deandre Ayton, Jake LaRavia and Marcus Smart. Meanwhile, Golden State’s ability to reshape its lineup has been slowed by a contract standoff with restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga. The Warriors have offered Kuminga a two-year, $45 million deal, but the 22-year-old prefers either his $7.9 million qualifying offer or a longer pact worth at least $30 million per season.
Veteran free agents Al Horford and De’Anthony Melton are reportedly waiting for the Kuminga situation to finalize before signing with Golden State. Restricted free agents have until Oct. 1 to accept qualifying offers.
No active negotiations between the teams have been reported this month, and there is no indication that James intends to waive his no-trade clause.
Source: Basketball Insiders
