If LeBron James isn’t playing for the Los Angeles Lakers in the 2026-27 season, NBA coaches, executives, and scouts think a familiar club would be the most likely landing spot for the league legend.
This summer made one thing very clear when it comes to the Lakers: Luka Doncic is the new face of the franchise. The best evidence of that reality is that the organization did not blink when James’ agent publicly pushed to improve the roster, and the NBA great did not give them a contract discount like he did a year ago.
With LA focused on building around Doncic, there has been a lot of speculation that James’ days in Lala Land are numbered. If he isn’t traded this year, he can take his talents elsewhere when he becomes a free agent next summer.
A team most linked to James is the Golden State Warriors. Since they reportedly tried to trade for him last year. However, it seems that many around the league think a different team might be the likely landing spot for the 21-time All-Star.
- Lebron James stats (2025-26): 24.4 PPG, 7.8 RPG, 8.2 APG, 1.0 SPG, 37% 3PT
NBA survey points to another LeBron James and Cleveland Cavaliers reunion
On Monday, ESPN released the results of a survey where they asked 20 NBA coaches, scouts, and executives various questions about the league. One of them was, “Where will LeBron James be at the start of the 2026-27 season?” Of those who responded, seven felt he would still be with the Lakers. Five others felt retirement was possible next year.
However, after that, only two voters thought the Warriors would get the NBA great. Four actually felt a third run with none other than the Cleveland Cavaliers was a realistic option. As odd as it might seem, a return to the team he already played twice for isn’t crazy.
- Lebron James contract: One year, $52.6 million
How realistic is James returning to Cleveland?
James is definitely in the final years of his career. So, ending his time in the league with the team it all started is not unusual in pro sports. Then there is the fact that the Cavaliers seem one big piece away from winning a title. If they can’t do it in 2025-26, they might be a little more desperate to add the multi-time NBA champ.
Plus, the Cavaliers might be willing to bring in James’s son, Bronny, if it means getting him for a discounted rate. It just feels right if one of the greatest players in NBA history ended his career with his home state team for one final title run.
