Warriors predicted to lose $305M 6-time All-Star LeBron James replacement to Heat in free agency originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Golden State Warriors have been heavily involved in the free agency pursuit of former Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James. From Stephen Curry to Draymond Green, the Warriors have been recruiting James since the beginning of free agency.

Golden State knows it has an opportunity to put together one final run with head coach Steve Kerr, Curry, Green and James. However, the pursuit has not been easy, and the Warriors appear to be on the outside looking in.

“I'm kind of hearing today that the Warriors internally kind of feel like they're a dark horse at this point, that LeBron James is probably going out east,” ESPN’s Marc Spears said.

With recent reports suggesting the Warriors are falling behind in the race for James, the team has reportedly identified a contingency plan. That player is believed to be veteran forward DeMar DeRozan.

“Because they have the mid-level to offer, the Warriors feel like the most likely landing spot for DeRozan if they miss out on James. They need another player who can create for himself. And while DeRozan doesn't raise the ceiling the same way James does, he would help them raise their floor,” CBS Sports’ Robby Kalland wrote.

Adding DeRozan would still give Golden State another proven scorer and shot creator. However, Sports Illustrated's Joey Akeley believes the Warriors could ultimately lose out on DeRozan to the Miami Heat.

“The Warriors are reportedly interested in DeMar DeRozan if they miss on James. But that doesn't mean DeRozan will be interested in them. DeRozan has played on one team with a winning record in the last seven seasons. I'm guessing he's thirsty for a deep playoff run. The Heat are more likely to go on a deep run than the Warriors,” Akeley wrote.

That would be a disappointing outcome for the Warriors, who could miss out on both James and DeRozan in free agency. However, if James ultimately signs with Cleveland or Philadelphia, Golden State could still pivot to other options.

DeRozan has earned more than $305 million over the course of his NBA career. Like James, he is expected to prioritize joining a legitimate championship contender. If it comes down to a choice between the Warriors and the Heat, Miami could have the edge given its recent postseason success.

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