Donovan Mitchell Downplays Rumors of LeBron James' Final Game in Cleveland

The Cavaliers superstar doesn't believe Wednesday's matchup will mark the end of LeBron's time in his hometown.

Jan. 28, 2026 at 6:31pm

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Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell doesn't expect Wednesday's game against the Los Angeles Lakers to be LeBron James' last in Cleveland. Mitchell said he "personally doesn't think this is the end" for James in his hometown, despite speculation that the 41-year-old superstar could be nearing retirement. Recent reports have indicated the Cavaliers would "gladly welcome" James back if he leaves the Lakers as a free agent this summer.

Why it matters

LeBron James' future has been a major topic of discussion as he enters the twilight of his legendary NBA career. A potential reunion with the Cavaliers, the team he led to a championship in 2016, would be a significant storyline in the league.

The details

In a recent interview, Donovan Mitchell shared that he doesn't expect Wednesday's matchup between the Cavaliers and Lakers to be LeBron James' final game in Cleveland. This comes amid rumors that the Cavaliers would be interested in bringing James back if he leaves the Lakers as a free agent this offseason. James, who is in his 23rd NBA season, has strong ties to Cleveland, having spent the first seven years of his career there and then returning for a four-year stint from 2014 to 2018 that culminated in the franchise's only championship.

  • The Cavaliers and Lakers will face off on Wednesday, January 28, 2026.

The players

Donovan Mitchell

A superstar guard for the Cleveland Cavaliers.

LeBron James

A 41-year-old NBA superstar who is currently playing for the Los Angeles Lakers, but has strong ties to the Cleveland Cavaliers, the team he led to a championship in 2016.

Rich Paul

LeBron James' agent.

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What they’re saying

“I don't think this is his last game (in CLE). I personally don't think this is the end.”

— Donovan Mitchell, Cavaliers Superstar Guard (ESPN)

“Multiple team and league sources told ESPN the Cavaliers would gladly welcome James back this summer if he wanted to return to Cleveland for his 24th NBA season and third stint with the team.”

— Dave McMenamin, ESPN Reporter (ESPN)

What’s next

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The takeaway

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