Warriors
The Warriors still haven’t given up on the idea of landing LeBron James.
According to Marc Stein and Jake Fischer of The Stein Line, Golden State continues to monitor James’ situation with the Lakers after reports that, as of Friday, he had yet to engage in serious contract talks with Los Angeles.
The Warriors had previously expected James to remain with the Lakers, but with his future still unsettled, they reportedly intend to make their pitch.
One selling point: Golden State would allow James to remain close to his Los Angeles home without joining the Clippers.
Financially, however, the Warriors have limited flexibility. They are expected to have roughly the $15 million midlevel exception available, though the exact figure depends on what happens with Draymond Green and impending free agent Kristaps Porzingis.
Speaking of Porzingis, Stein and Fischer report the Warriors are expected to finalize a new contract with the veteran big man before free agency officially opens Tuesday.
Golden State is also expected to explore other options while awaiting James’ decision.
Jock Landale, Anfernee Simons and Collin Sexton are among the players believed to be on the Warriors’ radar, with Simons and Sexton viewed as potential scoring guards who could strengthen the backcourt.
Cavaliers
James Harden’s return to Cleveland appears to be only a matter of time.
Stein and Fischer report the Cavaliers remain on track to finalize a new contract with Harden before free agency officially opens Tuesday.
They had previously indicated an agreement was expected before Monday and now suggest an announcement could come “any minute.”
Timberwolves
The Timberwolves are expected to pursue free agent forward John Collins as they continue searching for a replacement for Julius Randle.
According to Stein and Fischer, Minnesota has interest in Collins, though finding the financial flexibility to sign him could prove difficult.
The Magic, Spurs and Sixers are also expected to be in the mix, with San Antonio and Philadelphia continuing to be linked to several of the top forwards available in free agency.
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