Will the Golden State Warriors trade for All-Star forward Anthony Davis? That seems to be a popular question in the NBA community this week.
ESPN insider Shams Charania reported earlier this week that Golden State plans on pursuing LeBron James in free agency. In an effort to land the NBA's all-time leading scorer, they're apparently willing to explore a trade for Davis, who was an excellent fit next to James during their time together on the Los Angeles Lakers.
"The Warriors also could be in pursuit of Davis, whom league sources believe could be used as a motivational tactic to lure James to Golden State. The two won a championship together in 2020 with the Lakers and have remained close friends. However, there has yet to be tangible movement on the Davis front," Charania wrote. "To acquire Davis, the Warriors' matching salary would almost assuredly have to include superstar wing Jimmy Butler, who is nearly four months removed from ACL surgery. He is making an expiring $56.8 million next season. Davis is making $58.4 million in 2026-27 and has a $62.7 million player option for the following season."
NBA insider Marc Stein, however, is reporting that Golden State doesn't have to trade for Davis in order to receive a commitment from James this offseason.
"The Warriors are at the front of the line in pursuit of LeBron James in free agency and league sources tell me that Golden State is not operating as though it has a mandate to also pursue an Anthony Davis trade," Stein wrote Tuesday.
Golden State's chances of trading for Davis certainly lowered once they agreed to a two-year, $40 million contract with Kristaps Porzingis on Monday.
David Berding/Getty Images
What about LeBron James?
It was confirmed that James won't be returning to the Lakers for the 2026-27 season.
"After eight seasons with the Lakers, including leading the franchise to the 2020 NBA championship, James departs and enters free agency set to join a new team," Charania said. "Lakers president Rob Pelinka and Rich Paul spoke a short time ago about the four-time champion's plans, sources said. James chose to inform the Lakers well before start of free agency tonight out of courtesy and appreciation for their run together, and to allow LA to conduct its offseason business."
The Warriors are currently in the driver's seat to sign James. We'll see if other teams join the mix before free agency begins this Tuesday at 6 p.m. ET.
