New updates have emerged regarding LeBron James‘ expected suitors when he makes what is expected to be his final foray into NBA free agency this summer.
James’ eight-year tenure with the Los Angeles Lakers is the longest single stint he has had with any team during his career — his 11 seasons with the Cleveland Cavaliers were split over two separate tenures. However, his time in Lala Land is likely to end this offseason as the organization pushes further into building around Luka Doncic.
It has created a lot of speculation about where James could end up for what will probably be the final year of his illustrious career. As of now, the early favorites seem to be the Golden State Warriors and the Cavaliers. This week, some intriguing updates emerged on both teams potentially pursuing the four-time MVP this summer.
According to Melissa Rohlin of the New York Post, “there’s definitely some level of mutual interest there” when it comes to a partnership between James and the Warriors. The 21-time All-Star said in 2022 that playing with long-time pal Stephen Curry is something he would like to do before his career comes to a close.
However, Rohlin admits, being able to pay LeBron James the sort of money he will want in his final season — even at a discounted rate — might be difficult for Golden State to meet.
Cavaliers have ‘99%’ chance of signing LeBron James this summer?
James returning to Cleveland for a third and final run with his home state team seems like a viable option to many around the NBA. With his help, they can be a title contender in 2026-27, and playing with Donovan Mitchell and James Harden could certainly appeal to the league legend. Furthermore, finishing his career where it all started in 2003 would be fitting.
During a recent appearance on ESPN Cleveland 850, ESPN Brian Windhorst claimed the Cavs have a “99%” chance of signing James, but it comes with a huge caveat. Windhorst believes the team’s chances are only that good if he is willing to take a massive pay cut to join them for one final title run next season.
While the Cavaliers sliced off a solid chunk of their payroll before the trade deadline, they still won’t have a ton of money to offer free agents in the summer.
