Overview
- NBA insider Jake Fischer reported Golden State has contacted Los Angeles multiple times over the past 18 months to gauge a path to pairing LeBron James with Stephen Curry, a pursuit often linked to their 2024 Olympic chemistry.
- Rich Paul reiterated that no trade is planned and emphasized James’ control over any move, after James exercised his $52.6 million option for 2025-26.
- Lakers-focused reporting from Brett Siegel and Jovan Buha says the team has rebuffed inquiries and would only revisit a deal if James explicitly requested a trade, with Buha noting that condition as Rob Pelinka’s stance.
- Cap and roster hurdles complicate any Warriors offer, including a contract stalemate with restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga and the need for clean salary matching; analysts have floated a one-for-one structure such as Jimmy Butler for James as a theoretical match.
- The current expectation in league reporting is that James will start the season with the Lakers, who have oriented around Luka Dončić and added Deandre Ayton, Marcus Smart and Jake LaRavia, as Golden State’s interest persists without imminent traction.