Photo: Peter Baba

The Minnesota Timberwolves have reportedly increased their efforts to sign LeBron James in free agency, with league sources telling The Athletic that the franchise believes it has a legitimate chance to land the four-time NBA champion.

Minnesota is pitching James on the opportunity to join a talented core featuring Anthony Edwards, LaMelo Ball, Jaden McDaniels, and Rudy Gobert as the team looks to capture the first men’s professional sports championship in the state since the Minnesota Twins won the World Series in 1991.

According to sources, the Timberwolves are also emphasizing the legacy aspect of the decision, arguing that leading a franchise without an NBA title to its first championship would further strengthen James’ case as the greatest player in league history.

James’ agent, Rich Paul, also recently mentioned the Timberwolves as a potential destination during an appearance on his “Game Over” podcast, adding to speculation that Minnesota is firmly in the mix.