There's a strong belief that the Los Angeles Lakers need to sign another star player in order to land LeBron James this summer, someone like a Kawhi Leonard or Paul George - or both. One All-Star player that unexpectedly popped up in the discussion today was Kevin Durant, who LeBron reportedly reached out to about teaming up on the Lakers.
According to ESPN's Stephen A. Smith, LeBron has texted KD about coming to Los Angeles but the reigning, two-time NBA Finals MVP isn't interested in breaking up the Golden State Warriors. Durant has already informed the Warriors that he'll opt out of his contract this summer, but that's only because he plans to restructure his deal for a lot more money.
Although Durant isn't willing to team up with LeBron in L.A. there are still plenty of other options on the table.
The Lakers are reportedly "racing" to work out a deal for San Antonio Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard ahead of Friday at 11:59pm ET, when LeBron will have to inform the Cavs whether or not he'll opt in to the final year of his contract. Magic Johnson and co. are also eyeing Paul George, who recently decided to opt out of his final year in order to become a free agent on July 1.
Wherever LeBron chooses to sign, it appears we won't have to wait much longer. According to ESPN's Brian Windhorst, LeBron intends to make his decision before the 4th of July holiday. Appearing on The Lowe Post podcast last week (H/TBleacher Report), Windhorst said, "Everybody will be on holiday on July 4. It will be over by then."