The Golden State Warriors are reportedly exploring an ambitious plan to acquire Anthony Davis through trade before making a strong push for LeBron James in free agency. This aggressive strategy aims to extend Stephen Curry’s championship window, despite significant hurdles. The proposed sequence involves landing Davis, then leveraging his presence alongside Curry and coach Steve Kerr to entice James from the Los Angeles Lakers.
Any trade for Anthony Davis would likely center on Jimmy Butler’s $57 million expiring contract. Butler, recovering from a torn ACL, would also require Golden State to include substantial draft compensation, possibly two future first-round picks and four first-round swap rights. Convincing the Washington Wizards to accept a 37-year-old Butler for Davis, especially as the Wizards publicly emphasize competing now, presents a challenge. The Warriors project to have roughly the mid-level exception, around $15 million, available for James, requiring him to sign below his traditional maximum salary.
Golden State’s interest in James is not new; league insiders reported the Warriors have been expected “for months” to pursue him. The Lakers’ reported delay in extending James a contract has fueled free agency speculation. However, acquiring Davis remains the primary obstacle. Washington has repeatedly stated its intention to keep the All-NBA big man, with general manager Will Dawkins confirming both sides want Davis to remain. Davis is eligible for a four-year, $275 million supermax extension on August 6, making a pre-extension trade less appealing for Washington. This pursuit reflects Golden State’s determination to maximize remaining opportunities in Curry’s championship era.
