The idea of LeBron James wearing a Golden State Warriors jersey has lingered around the NBA for years. Now, one prominent Bay Area insider believes the possibility is more realistic than ever.

Speaking about James’ uncertain future with the Los Angeles Lakers, The San Francisco Standard’s Tim Kawakami recently suggested the Warriors should be viewed as a legitimate contender if the four-time NBA champion reaches free agency.

“I think the Warriors would be a very live option,” Kawakami said. “Check that: I think the process has already started and the Warriors are a live option.”

The comments come as questions continue to swirl around James’ future after completing his 23rd NBA season.

Kawakami added a return to the Lakers remains the most straightforward outcome, but also pointed to the possibility of both sides reassessing their partnership, particularly as Los Angeles continues building around Luka Doncic and a younger timeline.

If that happens, Golden State could emerge as a serious landing spot.

The Warriors have long been connected to James. The franchise explored a trade for him before the 2024 deadline, and James has developed strong relationships with Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and head coach Steve Kerr through years of competition and international play.

The biggest hurdle remains financial. According to Kawakami, Golden State could offer James only the non-taxpayer mid-level exception worth approximately $15.1 million. That would require a dramatic pay cut from one of the highest-paid players in league history.

Still, the basketball fit is easy to imagine.

A core featuring Curry, James, Draymond Green and Jimmy Butler would instantly become one of the most recognizable groups in the NBA. For a Warriors team searching for one final championship window during Curry’s career, adding James could represent the ultimate all-in move.

Whether it remains speculation or develops into something more, Kawakami’s comments have reignited one of basketball’s most fascinating possibilities.