According to Kevin O’Connor of Sports Illustrated, the Golden State Warriors are positioning themselves to trade for Anthony Davis in a deal potentially centered around Jimmy Butler and draft assets. This move is seen as a strategy to entice LeBron James to sign with the team during the upcoming free-agency period, James and Davis previously played together for 5.5 seasons with the Los Angeles Lakers, culminating in one championship.

A Davis-for-Butler Trade Proposal

O’Connor proposed a potential trade involving Butler and a top-11-protected 2027 first-round pick for Davis, as the 2027 pick would serve as enough incentive for the Washington Wizards, who reportedly are not committed to Davis long-term. Butler, on an expiring $57 million contract while recovering from a torn ACL, would make the trade feasible for Golden State, as per Bleacher Report.

Warriors’ Roster Projections and Financial Constraints

If the Warriors secure both Davis and James, the projected starting five would include Stephen Curry at point guard, LeBron James at shooting forward, Draymond Green at power forward, Anthony Davis at center, and a potential rotation including Kristaps Porzingis and Al Horford, according to Sports Illustrated. However, the financial implications are significant. James might accept a ed rate. Likely in the ballpark of $15 million, the midlevel exception, to join the team, per Bleacher Report.

Signing James would also raise questions about whether the Warriors can afford to retain Kristaps Porzingis, especially if they need to make cap space. A sign-and-trade scenario involving Butler, Green, or Porzingis to the Lakers is also being discussed, though it would complicate the trade equation and raise concerns about player fit and long-term strategy.

Challenges and Uncertainties

The Warriors would need to convince the Washington Wizards to trade Davis, but it’s unclear if the Wizards are willing to move him — General manager Will Dawkins has hinted at contract extension talks with Davis, indicating the team still sees value in keeping him. In addition, Butler’s uncertain return from a torn ACL and his age could make the Warriors hesitant to include him in the deal, as per CBS Sports.

Another challenge lies in the age of the projected starting lineup. Golden State would field one of the oldest lineups in the league, relying heavily on Hall of Fame talent and the health of its stars. The team’s biggest weaknesses would likely be point-of-attack defense and three-point shooting beyond Curry, which could be exploited in the playoffs if not addressed.

Despite these hurdles, the potential for a James-Curry-Davis trio is generating excitement. Their chemistry was evident during the Paris 2024 Olympics under Steve Kerr, as noted by Al Bat. The Warriors’ proposal to lure James would emphasize reuniting with Davis, teaming up with Curry and Green, and chasing one more title with a roster of legends.