Golden State Warriors star Draymond Green wanted to clarify his involvement in the discussions about potentially bringing Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James to his team before the NBA trade deadline.
ESPN reporters Adrian Wojnarowski and Ramona Shelburne reported that Green had made contact with Rich Paul, who is the agent for both Green and James, as the Warriors showed interest in the 20-time All-Star. Green offered his perspective on the matter during the NBA All-Star Game ALTCAST on truTV.
Green expressed that it appeared as though he was the one initiating the conversation about acquiring James.
“Well, it came out almost like I’m initiating these talks,” Green said. “Like Draymond contacted LeBron. No, it came to my desk. Something came over to my desk, and I was like, ‘Hmm, that’s interesting.’ Let me dive in a little bit. And so, you know, you tend to, you know, use relationships. Rich is my agent as well, so I can have that conversation with Rich. But I didn’t initiate these talks.”
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Draymond Green, Golden State Warriors, LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers Updates
Green also mentioned that he would have opposed the deal if it meant trading Jonathan Kuminga for James.
Ultimately, James was not moved and expressed no interest in leaving the Lakers, preferring to stay with the team. Acquiring him would have been a costly move for Golden State, potentially providing the boost needed for their season, as they stand 10th in the Western Conference with a 27-26 record.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Draymond Green, Golden State Warriors, LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers Updates
The Lakers, slightly ahead in 9th place with a 30-26 record, still benefit from James’ exceptional performance. At 39 years old, James is averaging 24.8 points, 7.8 assists, and 7.2 rebounds over 48 games in the 2023-24 season, and holds a player option for the 2024-25 season.
