Cavs Not Planning To Bring Back LeBron James Again?

LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers, Cleveland Cavaliers, NBA Trade Rumors
NBA Analysis Network

Eligible for an extension, there has been a lot of discussion about where LeBron James could play out the final years of his NBA career. Will he sign a two-year extension with the Los Angeles Lakers, or will it be a one-year deal so that he can become a free agent in 2024?

This type of thing would normally garner attention because it is something that James has been through so many times. At this point is when he would normally put pressure on the front office to make a trade to ensure that he will sign a longer deal with the team.

That is likely something that has already occurred, as there has been plenty of discussion about Los Angeles trying to move on from Russell Westbrook. Kyrie Irving of the Brooklyn Nets has been mentioned as a potential target, as James wants to team up once again with his former Cleveland Cavaliers running mate.

But, the extension talks this time carry a little different tune as James has made his intentions clear. He wants to play the final seasons of his career alongside his son, Bronny James. Bronny will be a senior this year, meaning that he is eligible for the 2024 NBA Draft.

As things currently stand, the Lakers do not have a first-round pick in that draft. It is owned by the New Orleans Pelicans from the Anthony Davis trade a few years ago. New Orleans could defer the selection to 2025 but is anyone’s guess if that is something David Griffin would be willing to do.

If Los Angeles cannot acquire a first-round pick, a one-season extension makes the most sense for James. That would make him a free agent in 2024, providing him the clearest path to teaming up with his son, as he could just sign with whichever franchise selects him.

One team that you can likely cross off that list is the aforementioned Cavaliers. According to Joe Vardon of The Athletic, Cleveland is not proceeding with the intention of targeting James for a third stint with the organization.

Things could certainly change between now and then, as the Cavaliers have a bright future. All-Stars Darius Garland and Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley, the No. 3 overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, provide Cleveland with an excellent young core to build around.

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