The Golden State Warriors explored a deal with the Los Angeles Lakers to acquire LeBron James at last week’s trade deadline, ESPN reported Wednesday.
During what the report characterized as a “clandestine 24-hour window” that included owner-to-owner conversations, the Warriors attempted to convince the Lakers to part with James.
However, both James and the Lakers were unwilling to explore a blockbuster deal to pair the 39-year-old All-Star with longtime rival Stephen Curry, per the report.
Warriors forward Draymond Green encouraged team owner Joe Lacob to reach out to Lakers owner Jeanie Buss, according to ESPN.
There was speculation earlier this month that James, the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, was frustrated in L.A. and might be looking for greener pastures. His agent, Rich Paul, announced publicly that the rumors were untrue and insisted that “we aren’t asking to be” traded.
James is averaging 24.8 points, 7.8 assists and 7.2 rebounds in 49 starts this season. He is scheduled to start in his 20th consecutive NBA All-Star Game on Sunday in Indianapolis.
James has a $51.4 million player option on his contract with the Lakers for the 2024-25 season. He has until June 29 to exercise the option.
–Field Level Media