LeBron Could Sign With Warriors If Lakers Sign Austin Reaves To Max Deal
LeBron James has spent a good portion of his career battling against the Golden State Warriors, and yet, there's a chance he suits up for them during the 2026-27 season.
Even at 41 years old, James remains an incredibly productive player. He proved his worth for the Los Angeles Lakers during the postseason, averaging 23.2 points, 7.3 assists and 6.7 rebounds per game.
While there has been chatter about James negotiating a new deal with the Lakers, ESPN reporter Anthony Slater said the Warriors are ready to make a run at the NBA's all-time leading scorer.
"The Warriors' pitch, if the door cracks open, would be simple. They can clear room for the full $15.1 million nontaxpayer midlevel - a team-friendly, low-risk bargain with on-court and off-court financial upside," Slater wrote. "James is an obvious top free agent target at that price point. The Warriors could theoretically tack on a second season player option and get Stephen Curry in on the recruitment process, if required. But they haven't knocked on that door because they've been given any indication it can be unlocked."
What would lead LeBron to Golden State?
The Lakers are still considered the favorites to sign James in free agency, but make no mistake, it won't be easy retaining both him and Austin Reaves.
Sam Amick of The Athletic believes the Lakers could lose James if they spend the majority of their money on Reaves this offseason.
"I think if Austin gets paid in the kind of way that keeps him in town, then there's not enough money for LeBron to feel respected, and then I could see him going up the coast and maybe doing the Warriors thing," Amick said. "So I feel like there's just not enough money to make all those guys happy with the Lakers."
With that being said, NBA fans may want to consider keeping an eye on the Warriors when it comes to the LeBron sweepstakes.
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This story was originally published June 19, 2026 at 7:27 AM.