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LeBron James is a free agent.
The Minnesota Timberwolves have shot their shot.
That's what The Athletic's Jon Krawczynski is reporting on Wednesday -- not that James is coming, but that the Wolves have made it clear to the King that they'd love to have him.
"With a player as talented and cerebral as James is, and a spot in their starting lineup that fits him perfectly, the Wolves had to at least let him know they would love to have him in Minnesota," Krawczynski wrote on Wednesday. "And that’s exactly what they are doing. After James informed the Los Angeles Lakers he would not be returning and would instead seek out another team to play for next season, the Wolves were one of several teams to reach out Tuesday and express interest in bringing James aboard, team and league sources that spoke on condition of anonymity to describe ongoing deliberations told The Athletic."
MORE: Bronny James' best future doesn't involve a trade from Lakers
The Timberwolves are clearly interested in maximizing the potential of their roster.
They've already pulled off the blockbuster trade that acquired LaMelo Ball from the Charlotte Hornets. That pairs Ball in the backcourt with superstar Anthony Edwards.
Jaden McDaniels is a rising star in the frontcourt, and Rudy Gobert continues to be a defensive standout at center.
Hey, that leaves one spot in the starting lineup. Now that both Julius Randle and Naz Reid have been traded away, James would fit in nicely.
"If James is prioritizing a chance at a fifth championship over money, the Timberwolves can make a compelling argument," Krawczynski writes. "James has long been a fan of Edwards, and the two won Olympic gold together in Paris last summer."
ESPN's Shams Charania did say on television on Wednesday morning that James isn't solely focused on money. That at least lifts Minnesota's chances a bit.
It's a long shot, but it was one worth shooting anyway.
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