1. Golden State Warriors
LeBron hasn’t been shy when it comes to talking about playing with the greatest shooter in NBA history. Steph Curry and the Warriors are coming off of yet another title and looked primed to be a contender this season yet again. Could LeBron James follow the path Kevin Durant set and win easy rings playing with the elite dynasty that is Golden State?
Joining a rival isn’t something that has been in LeBron’s playbook in seasons past. All three times he has hit free agency he has built a team in Miami, Cleveland, and Los Angeles for franchises that were heading in the wrong direction and he was the force that righted the ship.
Golden State would be unusual but his window to catch Jordan when it comes to rings is rapidly shrinking. He is already defying the odds with his longevity and level of play. Why not join the Warriors? Staying in California, playing with Steph, and having a great chance to win at least one ring at the end of his career are all compelling reasons for LeBron to consider.
The one downside to this move is the financial standpoint. The Warriors have Klay Thompson, Draymond Green, James Wiseman, Kevon, Looney, and Steph Curry all locked up for the 2023 season.
While this is what makes them a compelling landing spot it also means James would have to play for much less than the max deal he is accustomed to playing on. James would have to prioritize winning and staying in California perhaps taking close to the veteran minimum if he wants his chance to play with the Warriors core.