The Real Madrid star that the Warriors want as LeBron's 'Plan B'
Mario Hezonja aims for the NBA: Cavaliers and Warriors are fighting for him in the transfer market
The NBA market could soon regain one of the most well-known names in European basketball. Mario Hezonja has recently informed Real Madrid of his intention to return to the premier league after six seasons competing in Europe, and two franchises have already made moves to try to acquire him. According to the latest information, Cleveland Cavaliers and Golden State Warriors are the teams that have shown the most interest in securing the services of the Croatian forward for the 2026-27 season.
After establishing himself as one of the top stars in European basketball, Hezonja believes the time has come to face a second stage in the NBA. At 31 years old, the Croatian international thinks he is in one of the best moments of his career and that he can still contribute experience, physicality, and scoring to a team with title aspirations.
Cavaliers and Warriors closely monitor Hezonja's situation
The interest of Cleveland and Golden State responds to different needs, although both are looking to strengthen the wing rotation with an established player. The Cavaliers continue exploring the market after failing to sign LeBron James, who eventually chose to join the Philadelphia 76ers, while the Warriors are also seeking alternatives after losing the race to add the four-time NBA champion.
In both cases, Hezonja appears as an attractive option due to his international experience, ability to play multiple perimeter positions, and competitive maturity, much superior to what he had during his first stint in the United States.
Although there is no agreement with any franchise yet, the fact that the player has already informed Real Madrid of his desire to leave the club is a significant step in facilitating his return to the NBA this summer.
A second chance after six years shining in Europe
Hezonja landed in the NBA in 2015 as one of the top prospects in European basketball after being selected by the Orlando Magic. Over five seasons, he also played for the New York Knicks and the Portland Trail Blazers, but never fully established himself as the star many projected during his time at FC Barcelona.
His career took a complete turn after returning to Europe. He first played a season in Greece and another in Russia before joining Real Madrid, where he became one of the most decisive players in the Euroleague and a key piece of the white team over the last four seasons.
The 2025-26 season once again showcased his immense competitive level. Between the Euroleague and national competitions, he played 80 games, averaging 15 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 2.1 assists, while also shooting 44.4% from the field, figures that have reignited the interest of several American franchises.
Golden State seeks alternatives after losing LeBron
For the Warriors, the addition of Hezonja would be part of the restructuring the franchise is planning after failing to convince LeBron James. Golden State was one of the most active teams during free agency, but the veteran forward ultimately chose to start a new chapter in Philadelphia.
Now, led by Mike Dunleavy Jr., the management works to reinforce the squad that will still be led by Stephen Curry, seeking players capable of providing immediate experience and depth to the rotation.
Meanwhile, Cleveland continues to scour the market for opportunities to give a new impetus to a project that reached the Eastern Conference finals last season. Adding a player like Hezonja would bring versatility, outside shooting, and international experience to a squad aiming to compete among the top teams in the Eastern Conference.
Mario Hezonja's Statistics in the 2025-26 Season
| Competition | Games | Points | Rebounds | Assists | Field Goals |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Euroleague and national competitions | 80 | 15.0 | 4.3 | 2.1 | 44.4% |
With his decision already communicated to Real Madrid, all signs point to Mario Hezonja being one of the most intriguing moves in this final stretch of the market. The Cavaliers and Warriors stand out as the top candidates to acquire the Croatian forward, although other franchises may join the bidding if he becomes available to negotiate his return to the NBA.
This is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, La estrella del Madrid que los Warriors quieren como "Plan B" de LeBron
