The NBA trade deadline for the 2023-24 season occurred last week, but unlike previous years, it was a relatively slow period for trades. However, teams in contention for the playoffs did make some moves to strengthen their rosters by acquiring new talent. One potential blockbuster trade that was discussed but ultimately did not happen involved Golden State Warriors’ attempt to trade for LeBron James.
According to ESPN reporters Adrian Wojnarowski and Romona Shelbourne, there were talks between the ownership of both teams regarding this potential trade. The discussions even reached a point where James was asked if he would be open to the idea of being traded. However, the 39-year-old superstar expressed his desire to remain with the Los Angeles Lakers, a sentiment that was confirmed by Lakers’ General Manager Rob Pelinka. As a result, James will continue to be a part of the Lakers’ lineup. Nevertheless, it is expected that other teams will also approach the Lakers in the upcoming offseason to explore the possibility of acquiring the four-time NBA champion.
The idea of trading for LeBron James was initially brought up by Golden State Warriors’ player Draymond Green to the team’s ownership. Subsequently, Warriors’ General Manager Joe Lacob contacted Lakers’ owner Jeanie Buss to discuss the potential trade. However, Buss informed Lacob that the Lakers had no interest in trading James. She did mention that they would need to consult with James first to gauge his thoughts on the matter. This aspect of the trade discussions is noteworthy because it suggests that the Lakers wanted to ensure James’ commitment to the team before making any decisions. Despite Green’s efforts to initiate the trade talks between the Warriors and the Lakers, it ultimately did not materialize, and James remains a member of the Lakers.
In addition to the Warriors, the Philadelphia 76ers’ Daryl Morey also reached out to the Lakers’ front office regarding a potential trade for LeBron James. However, Morey’s inquiry was swiftly rejected, indicating that the Sixers had no chance of acquiring James. It is evident that the Lakers are intent on retaining James as a key part of their team for the foreseeable future.
According to the Source sportslens.com