LeBron James Set to Join Cavs If He Accepts One Condition

Potential return to Cleveland could bring new chapter in James' storied career.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Speculation continues around LeBron James' next career step, as reports indicate a strong possibility that he will not remain with the Los Angeles Lakers for the upcoming season. The Cleveland Cavaliers have emerged as the most probable destination for James to conclude his professional journey, but he would need to accept a considerably reduced contract.

Why it matters

A potential return to Cleveland would mark a significant moment in LeBron James' career, reuniting him with the franchise where he first rose to NBA stardom. Such a move could bring renewed energy to the Cavs and excite their fanbase, while also allowing James to finish his career on a familiar stage.

The details

ESPN NBA analyst Brian Windhorst recently shared his view, suggesting that if LeBron agrees to a considerably reduced contract, he is nearly certain to sign with Cleveland. The only way the Cavs could add him is to get him to play at either the minimum or maybe make some moves to create flexibility with the tax mid-level exception.

  • This season, James is delivering solid numbers, averaging 22 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 7.1 assists over nearly 33 minutes per game.
  • The Lakers are pushing hard for a playoff berth, holding the fifth spot in the tough Western Conference with a 33-21 record as the postseason approaches.

The players

LeBron James

A 41-year-old NBA superstar who is nearing the twilight of his career and is considering a return to the Cleveland Cavaliers, the franchise where he first rose to stardom.

Brian Windhorst

An ESPN NBA analyst who has shared his view on the possibility of LeBron James joining the Cleveland Cavaliers if he accepts a considerably reduced contract.

Cleveland Cavaliers

An NBA franchise that has emerged as the most probable destination for LeBron James to conclude his professional journey, if he is willing to accept a reduced contract.

Los Angeles Lakers

The current team of LeBron James, who are pushing hard for a playoff berth in the tough Western Conference with a 33-21 record as the postseason approaches.

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What they’re saying

“The only way the Cavs could add him is to get him to play at either the minimum or maybe make some moves to create flexibility with the tax mid-level exception.”

— Brian Windhorst, ESPN NBA Analyst (ESPN Cleveland radio)

“If he's able and willing to accept that, I think it's 99%.”

— Brian Windhorst, ESPN NBA Analyst (ESPN Cleveland radio)

What’s next

The decision on whether LeBron James will join the Cleveland Cavaliers is poised to influence the dynamics of the upcoming NBA season for both teams involved.

The takeaway

A potential return to Cleveland would mark a significant moment in LeBron James' career, reuniting him with the franchise where he first rose to NBA stardom. Such a move could bring renewed energy to the Cavs and excite their fanbase, while also allowing James to finish his career on a familiar stage.