One of LeBron James’ most trusted former teammates has weighed in on his ongoing free agency.
Retired NBA veteran Iman Shumpert broke down James’ best free agency options this week on an episode of his “Shump Street” podcast. The outspoken shooting guard chose three ideal teams for James, depending on what he ultimately prioritizes the most about his likely final landing spot.
“If this is about a ring, Philly,” Shumpert said. “If this is about selling tickets, Miami. If this is about ending your career the way it should go, go to Cleveland.”
Shumpert did not stop there. He claimed that the Cavaliers, despite offering James the most compelling narrative to finish his career, would not offer him any chance at riding off into the sunset as an NBA champion.
“Just don’t go to Cleveland trying to be happy about a win, because you not going to win there,” Shumpert continued. “You’re not going to be happy. This is about the return tour; this is not about winning. Don’t you dare go over there, think it’s rolling with the winners.
“I don’t know what’s up with them during the playoffs, don’t do it. I’ve been on a team when LeBron was frustrated, and he felt like he got too much going on. He’s going to start shipping s–t out of there, man. LeBron works for UPS, I’m telling y’all.”
Shumpert ironically developed his relationship with James in Cleveland during their four seasons together from 2014 to 2018. Shumpert came off the bench for the Cavaliers during their memorable 2016 NBA Finals run. Several members of that Cavaliers team even recently celebrated the 10th anniversary of their title run.
But Shumpert clearly does not think the present-day Cavaliers are legitimate contenders, despite having former Defensive Player of the Year Evan Mobley and an All-Star backcourt of James Harden and Donovan Mitchell.
Harden currently remains a free agent but is expected to re-sign with Cleveland. He is reportedly one of several free agents waiting on James’ decision, as teams keep their cap table flexible enough to fit LeBron’s salary.
