Report: LeBron James not interested in joining Warriors next season

If LeBron James decides to play another season, a move to the Warriors is not expected to be part of the equation.

Sources told Ashish Mathur of Lakers Daily that James is unlikely to sign with Golden State this offseason if he opts against retirement. The four-time champion becomes an unrestricted free agent this summer for the first time since 2018.

Several reports have suggested the Warriors could explore the possibility, with Stephen Curry and Draymond Green potentially involved in recruiting him.

But according to Mathur, the prevailing belief around the NBA is that James’ choices are far narrower. If he returns for another season, he is expected either to re-sign with the Lakers or return to the Cavaliers for a third stint.

“A farewell tour with the Warriors would make no sense at all,” one source told Mathur. “It’s Lakers, Cavaliers or retirement.”

James and the Warriors share plenty of history. During his second run in Cleveland from 2014-18, James and the Cavs met Golden State in four straight NBA Finals.

The Warriors won the championship in 2015, 2017 and 2018. The Cavs, of course, captured the 2016 title in dramatic fashion, rallying from a 3-1 series deficit behind James and Kyrie Irving.

Of course, it’s all speculation at this point. James has not publicly indicated whether he plans to retire or continue playing.

The Akron native, who turns 42 in December, is currently dealing with a left elbow contusion and ongoing arthritis in his left foot.