Steve Kerr and LeBron James already proved they could thrive on the same sideline when they helped Team USA capture Olympic gold in Paris, turning years of Finals rivalry into a championship partnership. Now, with Kerr committing his future to Golden State on a new two-year deal and the Warriors once again emerging as one of LeBron’s most talked-about landing spots, the timing has led to more speculation.

NBA legend Tracy McGrady joined the conversation on The Cousins podcast, suggesting that there’s more that meets the eye.

“This is my theory,” McGrady said. “I only have two teams that he can go … Go to the Cavs. … I looked at Steve Kerr, who was on his way out, was about to retire. And then he comes and signs a two-year deal.”

“I thought he was coming back to this, and then he signs a two-year deal. I’m like, something’s brewing, bro. Something’s cooking up for him to sign that deal because you’re not getting any younger, right, and the way you guys ended last year, it’s just like it felt like it was over for them.”

Golden State’s 2025-26 season ended well below expectations. They finished 37-45 and missed the playoffs after losing in the Play-In Tournament, entering the offseason needing another star alongside Stephen Curry – LeBron James.

James’ future has become one of the NBA’s biggest storylines, and the Golden State Warriors remain one of the teams most consistently linked to him. While no deal or commitment has been reported, multiple insiders have indicated that the Warriors are waiting on James’ decision.

One of the more interesting developments has been Steve Kerr agreeing to a new two-year extension. Officially, the extension simply keeps Kerr in charge of the Warriors beyond next season. Unofficially, many observers believe it sends another message.

Reuters reported that the Warriors responded by strengthening Kerr’s coaching staff, hiring former Lakers championship coach Frank Vogel as associate head coach. Vogel’s arrival also gives the Warriors another coach with an established relationship with James after they won the 2020 NBA title together in Los Angeles.

While there has been no credible report stating Steve Kerr signed the extension specifically to convince LeBron James, the timing has now fueled speculation because it removes uncertainty about the franchise’s leadership during what could be the final years of James’ career.

During the American Century Championship golf tournament, Stephen Curry made perhaps his strongest public recruiting pitch yet. He said that he “would love to play with him (LeBron).” He also added: “Hopefully it happens.”

Curry acknowledged that the idea, which once seemed impossible because of their rivalry, would now be an incredible opportunity. He stressed, however, that James has earned the right to decide on his own timetable.