LeBron James Keeps Tabs on Cleveland Cavaliers

The Lakers star hints at affinity for his hometown NBA team.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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LeBron James, the Los Angeles Lakers legend, has been keeping a close eye on his former team, the Cleveland Cavaliers. During his All-Star press conference, James expressed praise for the Cavs, saying he would pick them as the other team to win the NBA Finals besides the Lakers. The Cavaliers have made some notable additions, including James Harden, Dennis Schroder, and Keon Ellis, and have an easier second-half schedule, leading many to believe they could make a serious playoff push.

Why it matters

James' comments about the Cavaliers are intriguing, as he is set to become a free agent after this season. Some speculate that he may consider returning to Cleveland to finish his career, making his continued interest in the team significant.

The details

At his All-Star press conference, James was asked who he thinks will win the NBA Finals this year. He started by talking about his own team, the Lakers, before adding, "but if you wanted me to pick one other team, I would say the Cavs. They for sure got some new great additions." The Cavaliers made several trades before the deadline, acquiring James Harden, Dennis Schroder, and Keon Ellis, and they also have a favorable second-half schedule, leading to speculation that they could make a strong playoff push.

  • LeBron James made his comments about the Cavaliers at the NBA All-Star press conference on February 15, 2026.

The players

LeBron James

A legendary NBA player who has played for the Cleveland Cavaliers and Los Angeles Lakers during his career.

James Harden

An NBA player who was recently traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Donovan Mitchell

A star player for the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Evan Mobley

A young player for the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Jarrett Allen

A key player for the Cleveland Cavaliers.

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What they’re saying

“Well obviously I'm going to say my team, the Lakers, but if you wanted me to pick one other team, I would say the Cavs. They for sure got some new great additions.”

— LeBron James (NBA All-Star Press Conference)

What’s next

LeBron James will become a free agent after the 2022-23 NBA season, so his continued interest in the Cleveland Cavaliers could signal a potential return to his hometown team.

The takeaway

LeBron James' comments about the Cleveland Cavaliers at the NBA All-Star press conference suggest he is still keeping a close eye on his former team, fueling speculation that he may consider returning to Cleveland to finish his storied career.