LeBron James’ delay in making a free agency decision is apparently impacting a EuroLeague player’s NBA comeback.
LeBron James may be 41 years old, but his decision to enter free agency for the first time since 2018 has the entire NBA in chokehold.
While only a handful of NBA teams are in contention for James’ services next season, the broader impact of the delayed decision can be seen in how franchises are keeping roster spots open.
Evidently, it means NBA teams are not signing role players to have a shot at landing James. One role player who has been directly impacted by James is Mario Hezonja.
Shams Charania says Mario Hezonja’s sweepstakes are on hold because of LeBron James
Hezonja entered the NBA as the fifth overall pick in the 2015 draft. However, after just five years in the NBA, the Croatian forward left the league to play in Europe.
Now, Hezonja wants to make an NBA comeback, but according to senior NBA insider Shams Charania, the return has been put on hold because of James’ delayed free agency.
“There’s a guy abroad right now by the name of Mario Hezonja. He’s coming from the EuroLeague back to the NBA. He was a high draft pick several years ago. He is being held up by LeBron James,” Charania said.
He added, “So, LeBron James is not only holding up customs, he’s holding up business because Mario is waiting.”
Hezonja last played in the NBA during the 2019-20 season for the Portland Trail Blazers, where he averaged 4.8 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 0.9 assists per game.
While Hezonja averaged 13.2 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game for Real Madrid during the 2025-26 EuroLeague season, he’ll likely take a much smaller role if he returns to the NBA.
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