Heading into free agency this summer, the Golden State Warriors appeared very well positioned to serve a potential landing spot for LeBron James.
While James signing with Golden State remains a possibility, it feels like more of a longshot than it did just a week ago.
Warriors Not Currently Viewed as a Top Potential Landing Spot for LeBron James
GettyLOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 04: Rich Paul talks with LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers in the second half at Crypto.com Arena on January 04, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the Warriors’ pitch to land James hinged heavily on their ability to also acquire Anthony Davis from the Washington Wizards. However, the Wizards don’t appear to be willing to move Davis. As a result, the Warriors have lost ground in the race to land James.
“The Warriors, going into free agency, they dreamt up a grand plan of Draymond Green, Stephen Curry, LeBron James. But the big domino with them is trying to get a player like an Anthony Davis, so you can bring in LeBron James and Anthony Davis as a package deal,” Charania said during an appearance on Get Up. “Short of that, they’re not really looked at right now at the top of this list. But, things can change.”
James is intrigued about the potential of playing alongside Steph Curry in Golden State, but it remains to be seen if that will be enough to get him to sign with the Warriors. At this point, a few other teams appear to be better positioned to land James.
76ers, Heat, Cavaliers in the Mix to Land Lebron James
GettyPHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – DECEMBER 07: Lebron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts during the second half against the Philadelphia 76ers at Xfinity Mobile Arena on December 07, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)
While the Warriors have lost ground in a potential pursuit of James, the Philadelphia 76ers have gained ground following their surprise addition of Boston Celtics star forward Jaylen Brown via trade. The Cleveland Cavaliers and Miami Heat, the two other teams that James has played for previously, also remain in the mix, according to Charania.
“This is a true free agency process because so much has changed. … A few days ago, the Sixers didn’t have Jaylen Brown, now they do, they did it in stunning fashion and so now they have to be on the radar of LeBron James. … The Cavaliers, the Heat, they’re two teams that are known quantities,” Charania said.
Despite his advanced age, James will be able to help whatever teams he signs with, so it will be extremely interesting to see where he decides to play.
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