Amid reports the Golden State Warriors are seeking a star to pair alongside Stephen Curry before February’s trade deadline and the Los Angeles Lakers’ recent struggles, speculation about a LeBron James-to-Golden State deal has swelled.
But according to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, the NBA’s all-time leading scorer is yet to entertain these rumors.
“It’s up to [James].” Windhorst said during an appearance on ESPN’s “Get Up.” “He has a no-trade clause and he has given no indication he wants the Lakers to do anything but upgrade the roster they’ve got, not that he wants to go anywhere.”
Golden State’s idea of James and Curry teaming up has only grown since their run toward an Olympic crown together this past summer.
“The Warriors have dreamed of pairing LeBron with Steph Curry and Draymond Green since last year.” Windhorst said. “They made an inquiry and it got shut down last February. That was before LeBron played with [Golden State head coach] Steve Kerr and Steph Curry, and won the gold medal over the summer. They will definitely monitor the situation.”
Windhorst added that James had opportunities to express interest in moves to Golden State and elsewhere over the past year, yet has never pounced on such chances. Instead, he re-signed with the Lakers and wants to maximize his current team.
“If LeBron James wants to change his situation, he alone controls the situation,” Windhorst said on “First Take.”
The 13-11 Lakers have been off since Sunday and will return to the floor Friday against the Minnesota Timberwolves. James is not expected to play because of personal reasons and didn’t suit up for Sunday’s win over the Portland Trail Blazers either. James, 39, is averaging 23.0 points, 9.1 rebounds and 8.0 assists in 23 games this season.
