LeBron James has left the Cleveland Cavaliers twice during his NBA career. The first time he did it, he ultimately returned a few years later. Could that happen again?
James discussed the possibility in a new interview with Jason Lloyd of The Athletic. The Los Angeles Lakers star made clear that he had not given any thought to the possibility, but notably left the door open to it.
“The door’s not closed on that,” James said Saturday. “I’m not saying I’m coming back and playing, I don’t know. I don’t know what my future holds. I don’t even know when I’m free.”
James also reiterated that his aim is to end his career playing alongside his son Bronny, who would be draft-eligible in 2024. The elder James even went as far as to say that money would be no object in that scenario.
“My last year will be played with my son,” James said. “Wherever Bronny is at, that’s where I’ll be. I would do whatever it takes to play with my son for one year. It’s not about the money at that point.”
James is eligible for free agency after the 2022-23 season. That would leave him one year before his son is due to enter the league. He could certainly opt to stick with the Lakers, or even assess other opportunities in the hunt for a championship. Cleveland could even be an option at that point, as an ex-teammate has mused.
The money and fit would have to work, and that could be complicated if the Cavaliers continue to progress and ascend toward the top of the Eastern Conference. A reunion is definitely not off the table, though.
Photo: Jan 21, 2022; Orlando, Florida, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (6) against the Orlando Magic during the first quarter at Amway Center. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
