LeBron James Rumors Prompt Reaction From Cavs' Donovan Mitchell

Cavaliers star discusses possibility of James returning to Cleveland for final NBA stint.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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As LeBron James' contract with the Los Angeles Lakers expires after the 2025-26 season, rumors have swirled about the four-time NBA MVP potentially returning to the Cleveland Cavaliers to finish his storied career. Cavaliers star Donovan Mitchell has weighed in on the speculation, stating that while it would be "special" to play alongside James, his focus remains on leading the Cavs to their first championship since 2016.

Why it matters

The potential return of LeBron James to the Cavaliers would be a major storyline in the NBA, as it would mark a storybook ending to one of the greatest careers in league history. However, Mitchell's comments suggest the Cavaliers are focused on their own championship aspirations rather than the James rumors.

The details

Mitchell acknowledged the rumors surrounding James, but emphasized that his main priority is helping the Cavaliers win a title this season. The team recently made some key trades, acquiring James Harden, Dennis Schroder, and Keon Ellis, and Mitchell is eager to see how the new-look roster performs.

  • LeBron James' current contract with the Lakers expires after the 2025-26 season.

The players

LeBron James

A four-time NBA champion and four-time NBA MVP, James is one of the greatest players in NBA history. He has spent the last few seasons with the Los Angeles Lakers but is set to become a free agent after the 2025-26 season.

Donovan Mitchell

The star guard of the Cleveland Cavaliers, Mitchell is focused on leading his team to their first NBA championship since 2016.

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What they’re saying

“It's LeBron James, right?”

— Donovan Mitchell, Cavaliers Guard (SiriusXM NBA Radio)

“As a Bron fan, to be able to be a teammate would obviously be special, but that's not something that's [in] my control. I can control what we have here. There's always going to be reports. That's natural. It's going to be a thing, but at the end of the day, my main focus right now is trying to get this championship, and whatever happens, it happens.”

— Donovan Mitchell, Cavaliers Guard (SiriusXM NBA Radio)

What’s next

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The takeaway

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