LeBron James’ future in the NBA has been a hot topic in recent years, especially as he approaches the twilight of his illustrious career.
With another early playoff exit for the Los Angeles Lakers, ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith has floated an intriguing idea: LeBron James should consider a return to the Cleveland Cavaliers, the team where he built his legacy. This move, Smith argues, could provide James with a better shot at securing another NBA championship.
As the 40-year-old enters his 23rd NBA season, LeBron James remains a key player for the Lakers. He exercised his $52.6 million player option for the 2025-26 season, ensuring his place with the Lakers for at least one more year. Last season, James continued to play at a high level, averaging 24.2 points, 8.2 assists, and 7.8 rebounds.
However, despite his individual success, the Lakers faced another early playoff exit, falling short to the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round.
Meanwhile, the Cleveland Cavaliers, led by their rising star Donovan Mitchell, have emerged as a promising team in the Eastern Conference. Despite finishing as the top seed in the East, the Cavaliers were eliminated in the second round by the Indiana Pacers.
While it was a disappointing end to their season, Smith believes the Cavaliers offer a more favorable championship path for LeBron, especially when compared to the formidable Western Conference, where the Lakers currently reside.
A championship path through Cleveland
Stephen A. Smith’s argument for LeBron’s return to Cleveland revolves around the idea that the Cavaliers, with their young core and championship potential, would provide LeBron with a better chance to win his fifth NBA title.
Smith pointed out that the Lakers’ struggles in the Western Conference, with strong teams like the Oklahoma City Thunder, Houston Rockets, and reigning champions, the Denver Nuggets, make the road to the NBA Finals more difficult.
In contrast, Smith suggests that the East offers a less competitive environment, where LeBron could potentially lead the Cavaliers to the Finals, marking a fitting end to his career.
If James were to return to Cleveland, it would be his third stint with the team, where he remains the all-time leader in points, assists, and steals. Smith believes this could give LeBron the final championship run he’s chasing.
Smith emphasized that while the appeal of Southern California’s weather and Hollywood may have initially drawn LeBron to Los Angeles, the Lakers’ current trajectory does not seem to promise another championship. Smith’s stance is clear: LeBron should return to Cleveland for one final push in pursuit of NBA glory.
Whether or not James will entertain this idea remains to be seen, but the suggestion has certainly captured the imagination of NBA fans and analysts alike.
Read the full article here
