The LeBron James free agency frenzy appears to be nearing its end, with a decision expected very soon. Multiple teams remain in the running for the four-time NBA champion
The Los Angeles Lakers moved on quickly after James informed the organization he would not return for a ninth season. Now, the Cleveland Cavaliers and Golden State Warriors appear to be the favorites
“I would be stunned if he picked a team that wasn’t Golden State or Cleveland,” a Western Conference executive told FOS’ Alex Schiffer
The Warriors have pulled out all the stops in their pursuit of James this offseason, but his decision is still pending. Golden State could make one final move to strengthen its case by signing veteran forward DeMar DeRozan to bolster the bench
“The wing that the Warriors will most likely explore signing is DeMar DeRozan. The six-time All-Star will never be mistaken for a good defender, as his 2025-26 Defensive EPM was in the 1st percentile. He does make up for some of that defense with a high-scoring, low-turnover offensive game that will provide value for any team,” Sports Illustrated’s Joey Akeley wrote
Last week, the 17-year veteran was officially waived by the Sacramento Kings after the team was unable to find a trade partner
“The Sacramento Kings have waived DeMar DeRozan, the team announced Monday, making the six-time All-Star one of the top free agents on the market. DeRozan had a partial guarantee on his contract for next season, but he and Sacramento worked on his release to allow him to find a new home. Multiple contenders are expected to have interest in the veteran guard,” ESPN wrote
DeRozan would fit well on a Warriors roster filled with experienced veterans and could become an even more appealing addition if James ultimately chooses Golden State. Adding another proven scorer before James announces his decision could strengthen the Warriors’ pitch
DeRozan played last season on a $73 million contract with the Kings, though he is unlikely to command a deal of that size in free agency. The Warriors have already been aggressive in their pursuit of James, but they may still have one more move left before he makes his decision
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