The Golden State Warriors plan to feature prominently in trade discussions for Giannis Antetokounmpo this offseason if he comes to market with the Milwaukee Bucks, while exploring the prospect of teaming LeBron James with Stephen Curry once James becomes an unrestricted free agent on June 30. Sources say the Warriors view both superstars as potential franchise-altering additions.
The relationship between Curry and James has improved greatly over the years from where it stood when they met in four straight NBA Finals from 2015 to 2018. Their chemistry during the 2024 Paris Olympics, where they won the gold medal for the United States, demonstrated the potential of a partnership that once seemed impossible.
Curry is signed through the 2026-27 season and has showed few signs of slowing down. The Warriors believe pairing him with either Antetokounmpo or James could extend their contention timeline.
Golden State remains unlikely to trade Jimmy Butler following his torn ACL, with sources indicating the franchise plans to back the veteran through his recovery. Butler’s locker room presence and the enjoyment he has expressed since landing with the Warriors last February have been welcomed by the organization, particularly while navigating the ongoing Jonathan Kuminga drama.
The Warriors would only consider moving Butler if a player on a very short list of superstars became available and specifically targeted Golden State as a preferred destination. Sources say the team has not shown interest in trading Butler for Dallas’ Anthony Davis.
Realistically, Golden State does not expect a shot at Antetokounmpo or James until the offseason at the earliest. The Warriors will not entertain any move involving Butler unless a truly top-tier trade target pushes their way toward teaming up with Curry.
The Warriors were linked with a trade for James at the 2024 trade deadline. Draymond Green made the initial push to the team’s ownership and management before also consulting Rich Paul, who represents both Green and James.
Joe Lacob had a conversation with Jeanie Buss about the idea. Buss told Lacob that the Lakers had no desire to trade James but referred the Warriors to discuss it directly with James’ representation.
James and Paul said he preferred to remain with the Lakers. Rob Pelinka also confirmed that the team had no desire to trade their superstar. James signed a one-plus-one contract with the Lakers with a no-trade clause during the 2024 offseason. His future is uncertain as he is on an expiring contract after the Lakers declined to engage him on an extension last offseason.
Steve Kerr is not yet signed on a contract beyond the current season, but he has remained open to staying with the Warriors as Curry plays out his final seasons.