Warriors have called Lakers about possible LeBron James trade

As usual, the Warriors aren’t done swinging big — and yes, that apparently includes LeBron James.

According to Jake Fischer of The Stein Line, Golden State has reached out to the Lakers “on multiple occasions over the past 18 months” to explore trade scenarios involving James.

“As long as LeBron James’ future in Los Angeles remains uncertain, Golden State will undoubtedly be mentioned as a potential James suitor,” Fischer wrote. “I’m told that the Warriors have called the Lakers on multiple occasions to see whether there is any trade pathway to pairing James with Stephen Curry.”

The idea stems partly from last summer, when Curry and James teamed up for Team USA’s run to Olympic gold under Warriors coach Steve Kerr. After years as Finals rivals, the two st ars reportedly enjoyed their time together on the same side.

Golden State has a history of “big-game hunting,” as Fischer noted — first chasing Kevin Durant in 2016 and more recently trading for Jimmy Butler in February. Adding James would fit that same mold.

The reality, though, is that a deal would be difficult. James will make $52.6 million this season, and the Warriors would have to gut their roster to come close to that number, even if Jonathan Kuminga were signed to a new deal north of $20 million. The same challenges apply if Golden State ever pursued another superstar like Giannis Antetokounmpo, Fischer noted.

Still, this is the NBA. The Warriors are always lurking, and if James’ future in Los Angeles becomes shaky, expect Golden State’s name to keep coming up.