Speculation that LeBron James might leave the Los Angeles Lakers this offseason continues to linger, with a new rumor linking him to a particularly intriguing outcome.
In an appearance on “NBA Today” Friday, ESPN’s Tim MacMahon revealed there is “rampant speculation” that James might return to Cleveland next season for an epic retirement tour with the Cavaliers.
“I know what the rampant speculation is around the league, and that is this summer there’s going to be a reunion and potentially a retirement tour for the ages back home again with the Cleveland Cavaliers next year,” MacMahon said.
"I know what the ramping speculation is around the league: this summer there's gonna be a reunion and potentially a retirement tour for the ages back home again with the Cleveland Cavaliers next year" – @BannedMacMahon on Lebron pic.twitter.com/lcm1CSDmQ2
— Oh No He Didn't (@ohnohedidnt24) February 13, 2026
Rumors about a potential return to Cleveland have never quite gone away for James, but they seem to have picked up again recently. Those rumors are being partially fueled by speculation that the legendary forward is playing his final season with the Lakers as tensions linger between him and the organization.
If James did leave the Lakers, there are realistically only a few other teams he might play for. The Cavs would figure to be at the top of the list, though a lot of things would have to be worked out for it to happen.
James, 41, is averaging 22 points, 7.1 assists, and 5.8 rebounds per game so far this season. He became the oldest player in NBA history to notch a triple-double on Thursday night.
