Now that we are in a time when talks about LeBron James’ future with the Los Angeles Lakers are making headlines as it is still uncertain what move he will make, one big dream keeps the minds of basketball fans alive: His potential return to the Cleveland Cavaliers.
However, a new report states that any chance of him playing for the third time in Cleveland comes from the agreeement on a specific condition: a buyout.
Cavaliers’ condition
A report from Ashish Mathur of Hoops Wire says the Cleveland Cavaliers are only interested in reuniting with James in a buyout situation. Even though many would love to see the four-time NBA winner come back to his home state, team insiders have made it clear that the office only wants James if he can be available through a buyout, not a trade.
With James picking his big $52.6 million deal for the 2025/26 season with the Lakers, Cleveland sees a trade as too costly and not a smart move for the franchise interests. In order to get LeBron back, they would likely have to give up top players or future picks, a risky step the Cavaliers are not willing to take after a great season with 64 wins.
The buyout situation
A buyout would mean the Lakers and LeBron both agree to split, with Los Angeles paying part of his pay left to let him go. This move lets James join any team as a free agent, and maybe lets him go back to Cleveland on a simple and affordable deal.
For the Cavaliers, this is the only way it could work. It lets them add James to a strong team without losing their future plans or team depth. Nevertheless, for this to happen, LeBron must request or at least agree to a buyout, and the Lakers must be flexible with letting him go without getting anything in return. If said like this, it does not look possible at all.
The real perspective
As of today, there is no sign that a buyout is coming. The Lakers have not said they are open to this idea, and LeBron himself has not shown his hypothetical desire to leave Los Angeles, at least not this way. Plus, he is still a big asset for the team, both on and off the court.
Yet, as the Lakers look more to a young group led by Luka Doni, and with doubts on how James fits this new plan, guesses keep on growing.
The idea of LeBron James going back to Cleveland could happen, but it is not easy. The Cavaliers have clear rules: no trade, no big deals, and no stressing their current team. If they are to reunite, it will be on their terms and only if James comes free through a buyout.
Till then, Cleveland fans can hope, but they must wait to see if LeBron and the Lakers decide to make this big change.
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