LeBron James has raised plenty of eyebrows after opting into his $52.6 million player option for next season.
As he enters his eighth season with the Los Angeles Lakers, James is set to turn 41 during the campaign that will make him the oldest player in the NBA. The decision quickly sparked debates and trade speculation, even after his agent Rich Paul provided an explanation for the move — stating contract structure was the main factor.
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James still found himself linked to trade rumours, including ties to Cleveland and Dallas. But according to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, a return to the Cavaliers doesn’t appear to be on the cards.
Why a Cleveland Cavaliers return for LeBron James is ‘not happening’
James’ legacy in Cleveland is undisputed. Drafted first overall in 2003, he led the Cavaliers to their only NBA title in 2016 — and remains beloved in the city.
But logistical hurdles are likely to stand in the way of a homecoming. Speaking on ESPN LA, McMenamin pointed out the salary cap challenges that make a deal unlikely.
“The Cavs are in the second apron right now, so they cannot trade for LeBron James. That’s a risk because once you get rid of [multiple players], there’s a chance that it doesn’t go through,” he explained. “I don’t think that the Cavs are happening.”
Short of the Cavaliers sacrificing multiple players just to get under the second apron, the fit simply isn’t there — especially since James holds a no-trade clause in his final Lakers season.
And even if Cleveland wanted to explore a trade, lateral salary reasons would further complicate any talks.
Why LeBron James leaving for Mavericks would likely need a Lakers buyout
Meanwhile, James has also been tentatively linked to the Dallas Mavericks — a team that would only act under very specific terms.
McMenamin noted that the Mavericks’ interest hinges on a Lakers buyout, rather than a trade.
“Dallas, I’m told that, they would only be interested in LeBron in a buyout situation. There’s a deal to be made there, but again, I don’t believe that’s happening,” he said.
The Lakers have already benefited from a recent buyout, having picked up Deandre Ayton from Portland on a remarkably favourable deal. Ayton will earn just $16.6 million over two years — a bargain for a former top pick.
Still, there’s little incentive for James to seek a buyout if the Lakers can build a contender around him. Even approaching his 41st birthday, the oldest player in the league averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds and 8.2 assists last season.
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