Some Warriors officials pushed for Anthony Davis trade before LeBron pursuit ended

The Warriors’ pursuit of LeBron James wasn’t the only blockbuster idea discussed behind the scenes this summer.

According to The Ringer, a small group within Golden State’s front office believed the team should have pursued Anthony Davis instead, potentially by trading Jimmy Butler and draft picks.

The report said those discussions took place during NBA Summer League in Las Vegas.

Ultimately, concerns over Davis’ injury history and his desire for another contract extension convinced Warriors leadership to stay the course.

Golden State eventually watched James sign with the 76ers, leaving the Warriors to run back much of the same core built around Stephen Curry.

The report also shed light on the organization’s long-term thinking. According to The Ringer, owner Joe Lacob has become increasingly reluctant to part with future draft assets, largely because of concerns about what life after Curry will look like.

Since former general manager Bob Myers departed in 2023, Lacob has taken on a larger role in basketball decisions, according to the report. That approach, The Ringer argued, has contributed to several missed opportunities in recent years.

The Warriors pursued stars such as LeBron, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Kevin Durant, Paul George and Lauri Markkanen, but none ultimately landed in Golden State.

The franchise is now expected to enter next season with Curry, Draymond Green and Kristaps Porzingis leading the way while hoping its current roster can make one more postseason run.