Golden State Warriors seek LeBron James, Anthony Davis after Draymond Green declines option

Draymond Green declined his $27.6‑$27.7 million player option for the 2026‑27 season, turning his contract into a free‑agent deal that could be followed by a lower‑salary extension. The move gives the Golden State Warriors additional salary‑cap breathing room, allowing them to use the non‑taxpayer mid‑level exception (about $15 million) to pursue free‑agent star LeBron James.

Reports say the Warriors also intend to acquire former Lakers teammate Anthony Davis from the Washington Wizards. To make the trade salary‑compatible, the clubs would likely move Jimmy Butler—currently on an expiring $57 million contract and recovering from a torn ACL—along with future first‑round picks to Washington. Butler has publicly stated he wants to finish his career with Golden State.

If the four‑player core of Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, LeBron James and Anthony Davis materialises, it would create a veteran “big 4” that could contend for a title. The team currently has roughly $156 million committed to eight players, under the $209 million cap apron, and is exploring how to balance the roster while preserving flexibility for additional upgrades.