Tony Gutierrez/Associated Press

In the Philadelphia 76ers' quest to sign LeBron James, a key piece of their plan reportedly involves acquiring Kawhi Leonard from the San Antonio Spurs.

Per Marc Stein of the New York Times, the Sixers are going to pitch James' agent, Rich Paul, on the belief they have a "real chance" to land Leonard.

ESPN's Ian Begley noted there are several people within the Sixers organization who are "confident" Leonard would re-sign with them next summer if they acquire him.

Stein said on The Dan Patrick Show (via RealGM.com) that the Sixers "badly" want to acquire Leonard.

Sports Illustrated's Jake Fischer noted Thursday that the Philadelphia front office has presented its ownership with "several trade scenarios" for San Antonio.

ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski said on The Jump that the Los Angeles Lakers—reportedly Leonard's preferred destination—haven't aggressively pursued a deal for the two-time All-Star because they may want to see how things play out with James.

Wojnarowski added the Spurs have a high threshold for what they will accept in a deal for Leonard and would be "willing to walk away" from free agency with him still on the roster, either to repair the relationship or wait for the trade offer they want.

The 76ers are thinking big this offseason after finishing 52-30 last season and winning their first playoff series in six years.