One year ago, in a move that would have shaken the NBA to its core, the Golden State Warriors made an aggressive push to trade for Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James. The effort, reportedly executed during a narrow 24-hour window before the 2024 NBA Trade Deadline, ultimately failed when LeBron declined the opportunity, choosing to remain in Los Angeles. However, with the 2025 offseason now upon us and questions swirling about the future of both franchises, a tantalizing question resurfaces: could the Warriors try again?
In February 2024, the Warriors, facing inconsistency and an aging core, were seeking a spark to revitalize their championship window. According to league insiders, the front office quietly initiated a trade proposal with the Lakers, hoping to acquire LeBron James and pair him with Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Klay Thompson for what could have been the most star-studded lineup since the Durant era.
Draymond Green, a longtime admirer and friend of LeBron, even sent a personal text message to Rich Paul — LeBron’s agent and the head of Klutch Sports — to help grease the wheels. The idea was simple: convince LeBron that joining Golden State could extend his championship window and lighten his on-court load alongside other veteran stars.
But LeBron declined.
Sources close to the situation said LeBron was flattered but firm in his loyalty to the Lakers. Despite the team’s struggles at the time and uncertainty surrounding its future, James reportedly expressed a desire to remain in Los Angeles — not just for basketball reasons, but because of his family, business interests, and legacy in the purple and gold.
The failed trade attempt was significant for several reasons. For the Warriors, it was a signal that they were still in win-now mode despite signs of regression and internal questions about the long-term viability of their core. For the Lakers, it was a reminder of the tightrope they walk balancing LeBron’s ambitions with the long-term rebuild looming once he retires or departs.
Fast forward to today, and both teams find themselves at a crossroads again.
The Lakers, fresh off a first-round playoff exit and another injury-plagued season, face questions about their coaching staff, roster depth, and the future of Anthony Davis. LeBron, now entering his 22nd NBA season, has a player option looming — and as always, his decisions will have ripple effects across the league.
The Warriors, meanwhile, are dealing with their own aging roster. Klay Thompson is a free agent, Draymond’s production has dipped, and Curry — though still playing at an elite level — is no longer in his prime. The front office must weigh whether to rebuild or reload.
That’s where the LeBron conversation reenters the picture.
The key question: would LeBron reconsider Golden State in 2025?
On paper, the fit is tantalizing. Pairing LeBron with Curry, perhaps the two most influential players of the 21st century, would give Golden State an unmatched blend of IQ, playmaking, and championship pedigree. Both players are unselfish and have already shown an ability to share the spotlight with other superstars.
Draymond has long been vocal about his desire to play with LeBron — the two have shared a strong off-court friendship dating back years. And with the Warriors’ front office still committed to maximizing Curry’s remaining prime, it’s conceivable they could make another pitch.
The financials would be tricky but not impossible. If LeBron opts out of his current contract, he could sign for less than the max to facilitate a move. The Warriors could explore sign-and-trade scenarios or shed salary to make room. The franchise has already shown a willingness to pay the luxury tax for championship contention.
But there are obstacles.
LeBron has been deliberate in building his life in Los Angeles. From his production company, SpringHill Entertainment, to his son Bronny playing college basketball at USC (and potentially joining the NBA soon), his roots in Southern California run deep.
There’s also the matter of legacy. LeBron has said repeatedly that he wants to retire as a Laker. After winning a title in 2020 and climbing to the top of the NBA’s all-time scoring list in a Lakers jersey, he has cemented a lasting legacy in the franchise’s storied history.
Still, LeBron has shown in the past that he’s not afraid to make bold moves late in his career — think of his second stint in Cleveland or the move to Los Angeles in 2018. If he sees a real chance to chase another ring in Golden State, with a familiar cast and a system that emphasizes basketball IQ, the temptation could be there.
Perhaps the biggest X-factor in all of this is the role of Draymond Green and Stephen Curry.
Both players have enormous respect for LeBron, and both are known for their persuasive powers. Draymond was instrumental in recruiting Kevin Durant to Golden State in 2016. Curry, typically more reserved in recruitment, has made it known he wants to maximize his final championship window.
If the Warriors want LeBron — and if they think he might be open to it — it’s safe to assume that both Draymond and Steph would be fully involved in any effort to bring him aboard.
One storyline that cannot be ignored is LeBron’s desire to play alongside his son, Bronny James. LeBron has publicly stated this goal multiple times, saying he would do “whatever it takes” to make it happen.
Bronny’s draft stock remains uncertain, but he is eligible for the 2025 NBA Draft. If a team like Golden State could acquire both Jameses — or at least promise a real shot at it — it could sweeten the pot.
Of course, this would require some careful planning. The Warriors would have to draft Bronny or acquire his draft rights while also finding a way to add LeBron to their cap sheet. But stranger things have happened in the NBA — especially when the league’s biggest names are involved.
A year after the first attempt fell short, the idea of LeBron James joining the Warriors remains one of the most intriguing “what-ifs” in recent NBA memory. With both franchises facing pivotal offseasons, it’s not out of the realm of possibility that conversations — formal or informal — could pick up again.
Much will depend on LeBron’s mindset heading into Year 22. Is he still chasing titles above all else? Or is he content to finish his career in Los Angeles, regardless of contention?
And what about the Warriors? Do they still believe they have one last championship run left — and if so, are they willing to make the boldest move of all to make it happen?
For now, the question lingers. But if history is any indication, don’t be surprised if Draymond Green and Stephen Curry once again pick up the phone.
Because when it comes to LeBron James and the NBA offseason, anything is possible.
