The Golden State Warriors’ pipe dream of acquiring LeBron James and Anthony Davis together may not be over yet. Reports on Tuesday suggested that Golden State had pulled out of the Davis sweepstakes as they didn’t wish to part ways with Jimmy Butler. They were also not operating under the premise that James and Davis would arrive as a packaged deal.
However, ESPN insider Ramona Shelburne has made a new claim around it. Late on Tuesday night, hours after James said he was leaving the Lakers, Shelburne said that a Davis deal is still possible, but his former co-star holds the keys to it.
“This is a sequencing issue; they would want a commitment from LeBron James before they go make a move for somebody like Anthony Davis,” Shelburne said on NBA Today. “As I understand it now, there haven’t been any substantial conversations between the Warriors and the Wizards about Anthony Davis, yet.”
Shelburne also highlighted why a Davis trade might remain unlikely. Davis wants a long-term extension, which the Warriors may not offer. Golden State could be running with its aging core for the next two years, with most players entering the final year of their contract in the 2027-28 season, including Steph Curry. Coach Steve Kerr also signed a two-year extension this offseason.
Draymond Green, who opted out of his $27.7 million contract for next season, will likely have a contract that runs through 2028. If LeBron James signs, it’s likely to be the case again.
Rumor roundup: Who are LeBron James’ other suitors? What do Wizards plan to do with Anthony Davis?
LeBron James has multiple other suitors aside from the Golden State Warriors. NBA insider Jake Fischer mentioned the Cleveland Cavaliers and Miami Heat as two potential destinations.
James would return to familiar surroundings, including one close to his hometown of Akron, Ohio, for a storybook ending. As for Miami, it might be his best chance for a championship, alongside its newly acquired superstar, Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Even ESPN’s Shams Charania had listed those two teams as his landing spots.
According to The Athletic’s Sam Amick, the Minnesota Timberwolves have expressed interest in James. It’s another ideal opportunity given the team’s need in the frontcourt. James would have two fairly younger stars in LaMelo Ball and Anthony Edwards as his running mates, so his workload in the regular season won’t be as much.
Ultimately, Shams Charania reported that James’ decision is down to his happiness and not money. Such a report indicates that James’ free agency could be the most unpredictable of any free agent in the 2026 class.
On the other hand, according to ESPN’s Marc J. Spears, the Wizards have no plans to trade Anthony Davis. The 10-time All-Star’s value is at an all-time low, so it’s unlikely Washington will part ways at this time. The Wizards are also attempting to make a playoff push with Trae Young, AJ Dybantsa and Anthony Davis leading the franchise next year.
Davis, as the most experienced and the only former champion on the team, would be a key component to their aspirations.
Read more:
- “Hope I made a few proud”: LeBron James Pens Emotional Message To Jeanie Buss’ Tribute Following His Lakers Exit Decision
- “Luka Does Not Want Him Back”: Skip Bayless Makes Bold Accusation Against Lakers’ Superstar After LeBron James Exit
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