LeBron James Trade Shut Down in Favor of 22-YO Warriors Star as Rumors of Stephen Curry Reunion Reemerge
USA Today via Reuters
Who wouldn’t want to see LeBron James and Stephen Curry sporting the same jersey? It’s certainly a dream for every basketball fan today, especially after their remarkable chemistry at the Paris Olympics a few months ago. The Warriors have tried to make it happen before, but the Lakers superstar shut down all rumors by expressing his desire to retire in LA. However, both icons are currently focused on chasing their fifth title. When divide and conquer doesn’t seem to work, uniting might be the best solution. There have been chatters about the Dubs once again making a push to bring LeBron into the Blue and Yellow, but that comes at a cost that some believe isn’t worth paying.
The discussion became a highlight of the Run It Back show. Former NBA star Danny Green started by commending the Warriors for their current form as he didn’t believe with their existing roster, they would be executing a “good system basketball.” Despite the positives, the 3-time champion claimed, “I just don’t think the window of contention is there for them.” Further adding, “Sad to say, sorry Stephen, Draymond, y’all got your 4.” However, he didn’t forget to highlight the fact that they would be greedy to think about short-term success by bringing in draft picks. That means they would have to rebuild the team. But time is a factor. Both Stephen Curry and Draymond Green won’t be around for a long wait for their fifth title.
“I know they wanna get greedy, but moving forward, as you build around coming or if you bring in picks or some others, it’s hard to start over or trade him Jonathan Kuminga) for somebody another star that’s probably the best stars that we’re looking at now are still kinda older,” Green mentioned. That’s when host Michelle Beadle brought up the rumor, “The Internet had LeBron going to Golden State this weekend.” Upon hearing the 39-year-old’s name, player-turned-analyst Chandler Parsons declared, “I don’t trade Kuminga for LeBron.” Reason? The 20-time All-Star’s age.
The 22-year-old Kuminga could be a future asset for Golden State, a player around whom they can build the team for long-term goals. However, they can’t expect the same from LeBron, as his time is running out. Despite all the talk, the question still remains whether LeBron would be willing to ditch the Lakers in pursuit of more accolades.
NBA Insider sheds light on LeBron James’ potential linkup with the Warriors
If you’re someone who believes LeBron will finally answer the Warriors’ call, hold that thought as Brian Windhorst has shared his detailed insights on the matter. On NBA Countdown, the ESPN insider reminded everyone that during last season’s trade deadline, the franchise showed their interest and made a move but LeBron cleared the air by confessing that he would stick with the Lakers.
Then Windy pointed out, “Any trade that the Warriors make is gonna be complicated.” Elaborating further, he explained, “They have only $500,000 that they’re allowed to spend more in this season.” Moreover, he added, “Apron stuff — I know it’s boring. Any trade that they make, they really can’t take on more money. Guess what? The Lakers are not allowed to take on any money ’cause they’re in the first apron.”
Windy quickly followed it up by saying there was a possibility, “If LeBron wanted it.” But that’s not it. “LeBron has a no-trade clause. Also also, the Lakers don’t own their first-round pick. It goes unprotected to the Atlanta Hawks,” he said. So it won’t be that easy for the Dubs to reunite two of the generational stars, Curry and LeBron.
Windhorst emphasized that LeBron had the opportunity to move out of the Lakers twice in 10 months, but instead, he stayed. “One, at the trade deadline last year when the Warriors called. The Lakers went to LeBron and said, ‘Do you seriously wanna get traded?’ He said, ‘No.’ Last summer he became a free agent. He re-signed with the Lakers.” That’s a clear indication that the big guy isn’t going anywhere.
LeBron also claimed last year, “I am a Laker and I am happy and have been very happy being a Laker.” Do you think LeBron James will be able to stick to his word and continue being a proud Laker, or will he prioritize bagging his 5th Larry O’Brien Trophy? Share your thoughts below.
