In the last 24 hours before the trade deadline, the Golden State Warriors made a shocking attempt to persuade LeBron James to the Bay Area and team him up with his longtime rival Stephen Curry. The initiative was discussed owner-to-owner and demonstrated the Warriors’ desire to expand their star power and develop a powerful pair.
However, despite the Warriors’ efforts, neither the City of Angels nor the Akron Hammer were open to exploring the idea of this massive deal. Because even at the age of 39, James remains a formidable force in the NBA, which triggered the Warriors to consider adding him to their team. But the 4x NBA champion is showing signs of continuing his rivalry rather than shaking hands with his adversary. Although, who was the one to prompt this idea and what are the origins of it?
Draymond Green was the initiator of this blockbuster deal
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This prospective deal was driven by the Warriors star Draymond Green, who is a close friend of LeBron James. On his word, the Golden State owner Joe Lacob contacted Lakers owner Jeanie Buss to discuss a potential deal. However, Buss stated that the Lakers had no intention of trading James and recommended the Warriors to contact James’ agent, Rich Paul, for further confirmation.
ESPN Story with @RamonaShelburne: Over a 24-hour window prior to trade deadline that included owner to owner conversations, the Warriors made an unsuccessful bid to convince the Lakers and LeBron James to consider a trade to pair him with Stephen Curry. https://t.co/L14os5gTGp
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 14, 2024
So, in the Warriors’ pursuit, Green allegedly sent a text to Paul requesting him to convince Bron to join the Warriors. However, Paul confirmed to the Warriors’ management that James has no interest in a trade and was determined to stay with the Lakers. This courageous move by the Warriors indicates their commitment to consider every alternative for improving their squad. However, not only the Warriors but there is another team who tried to lure the 20x All-Star before the trade deadline.
The City of Brotherly Love shows interest in LeBron James
Daryl Morey, president of basketball operations for the Philadelphia 76ers, took a daring step before the trade deadline and enquired about a potential LeBron James deal with the Lakers. This occurred when Morey noticed James’ cryptic social media post showing an hourglass, which apparently hinted at the nearing deadline. And when Morey contacted the Lakers GM Rob Pelinka, he was right away notified that James was unavailable. However, Pelinka in return asked Morey if their cornerstone Joel Embiid was available instead.
Listening to that, the trade talks between the two teams completely shut down, eliminating the chance for the Sixers to acquire a big star. However, this is not the first time Morey has been in pursuit of a big name. Like before James, Morey called the Phoenix Suns about a Kevin Durant deal and inquired about Devin Booker and Bradley Beal’s availability. And just like James’ request, even the Valley of the Sun declined his offer and informed him that none of those players were available.
Read More: Joel Embiid Almost Became a Laker? LeBron James’ Cryptic Message Had NBA GMs in Chaos
However, even though the 76ers and the GSW failed to acquire the L-Train, there is a slight chance that the Dubs may get him during the offseason.
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How can the Dubs still acquire the L-Train?
Despite the unsuccessful trade effort before the deadline, the Golden State Warriors still have a chance to sign LeBron James this offseason as he has a $51.4 million player option for the 2024-25 season. However, if he decides to return to the Lakers, he is likely to refuse it and renegotiate a new contract with the team, possibly including an annual raise.
So, while James currently remains adamant about proceeding with the Lakers, other organizations, like the Warriors and the Philadelphia 76ers, are likely to present strong cases to persuade him to join their side. And with the prospect of playing with Stephen Curry and the possibility of being a part of the Warriors’ dynasty, the Golden State emerges as a genuine candidate for the 4x NBA champion, as his chances of earning the fifth ring increase tremendously.
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So, what do you think? Will King James join the star-studded Warriors just to earn his fifth ring? Let us know in the comments below.
Watch this Story: 39-Year-Old LeBron James Ends 2023 High and Way Above Fellow Veteran Stephen Curry in Elite NBA List