The Warriors reportedly tried arduous to purchase a number of veteran superstars earlier than the NBA’s Feb. 5 commerce deadline.
Golden State seemingly pushed all its chips in for Milwaukee Bucks ahead Giannis Antetokounmpo, and in addition had curiosity in Los Angeles Clippers star forward Kawhi Leonard.
Not solely did the Warriors have curiosity in Leonard, however they got here close to touchdown the seven-time All-Star, the San Francisco Standard’s Tim Kawakami reported in a story published Thursday, citing league sources.
“Multiple league sources indicated this week that the Warriors were reasonably close to trading for Kawhi Leonard last February — apparently with much of the deal terms generally agreed to — before the Clippers ultimately decided to pull out of the talks,” Kawakami wrote.
“Those same sources said that it’s understood around the league that the Warriors will continue to pursue big names to complete a glamor starting lineup that would also include Curry, Draymond, Jimmy Butler (when he’s healthy), and maybe [Kristaps] Porziņģis.”
Leonard may very well be a viable possibility for the Warriors this offseason, both by means of a commerce with the Clippers, or, if his contract were to be voided due to a doable league punishment from the continuing salary-cap circumvention investigation, in unrestricted free company.
The 34-year-old ahead, in 60 video games with the Clippers this season, is averaging a career-high 28.1 factors, 6.4 rebounds and three.6 assists per recreation on 50.3-percent taking pictures from the sector and 38 p.c from 3-point vary.
Alongside a wholesome Steph Curry and Jimmy Butler, and probably Porziņģis, if the Warriors were to re-sign him this offseason, Leonard definitely would elevate a formidable veteran lineup.
