An NBA insider has suggested it is nearly certain that LeBron James will rejoin the Cleveland Cavaliers if the team fails to reach the NBA Finals during the 2025-2026 season. James is set to become an unrestricted free agent following that season, opening the door for potential moves.
James’ History with the Cavaliers and Career Highlights
LeBron James previously played for the Cavaliers in two separate stints, from 2003 to 2010 and again from 2014 to 2018. He is widely regarded as the franchise’s best player and is expected to have his No. 23 jersey retired by the organization in the future. His leadership led Cleveland to its only NBA Championship in 2016, famously overcoming the Golden State Warriors’ historic 73-9 regular-season record.
Potential Interest from Other Teams and Free Agency Outlook
Turning 41 in December, James is the oldest active player in the league, and it remains uncertain whether he intends to continue playing beyond the 2025-2026 season. However, one NBA executive has indicated that the Cleveland Cavaliers, Dallas Mavericks, and Golden State Warriors are the three franchises most likely to pursue him once he enters free agency. According to the executive, all three teams were interested in trading for James during the current offseason but were impeded by his contract size and lack of trade request.
“If the Cavs don’t get past the Eastern Conference finals next year in the 2025-2026 season, I think it’s almost a guarantee that LeBron James comes back to Cleveland for the 2026-2027 year,”
Ethan Sands of Cleveland.com said on the Wine and Gold Talk podcast.
Cleveland, Dallas and Golden State, those are the three teams I’m looking at,
an NBA executive told DallasHoopsJournal.
All three would have loved to trade for him this offseason, but he never requested a trade and he makes way too much money. Once he’s on the open market, those three will court him. I have no doubt in my mind.
Legacy and Future Possibilities for LeBron James
James is a four-time NBA champion and four-time MVP, with a storied career that includes playing for Miami Heat and the Los Angeles Lakers. He holds career averages of 27.0 points, 7.5 rebounds, 7.4 assists, 1.5 steals, and 0.7 blocks per game. Notably, James is the only player in NBA history ranked among the top five all-time in both points and assists. During the last season, he averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists with the Lakers.
The decision of whether LeBron James retires after the 2025-2026 campaign or continues to play in 2026-2027 will be closely watched given his long-standing impact on the sport since his NBA debut in 2003. His return to Cleveland would add a significant chapter to his career and carry emotional weight for both the player and the franchise.