LeBron James triggered some speculation about a possible return to the Miami Heat with some of his social media activity over the weekend, but the team does not have any reason to believe James has given consideration to it.
According to Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald, the Heat are operating under the assumption that LeBron will either re-sign with the Cleveland Cavaliers next summer or join the Los Angeles Lakers. Here’s the Instagram post that got some people buzzing:
It appears James was simply visiting Miami, and Jackson reports that the Heat have been given “zero indication” a possible reunion is on the table.
Had it not been for Dwyane Wade leaving Miami, the thought of LeBron returning to the Heat and someone like Carmelo Anthony joining him would be more realistic. The most likely scenario is still that he remains in Cleveland, especially with how much stronger the Western Conference has gotten this offseason.
LeBron would likely only go to the Lakers if Lonzo Ball looks like a stud in his rookie season and Paul George is also signing with the team. And even then, his easiest path back to the NBA Finals will be in the Eastern Conference, where he doesn’t have to face the Golden State Warriors.
While some of the things that have gone on in Cleveland this summer make the future look somewhat dark, the Cavs are still the best team in the East. If they can add another piece of two, LeBron should be content sticking around.
