Bobby Portis backs ‘perfect’ LeBron James move as Lakers uncertainty grows

Speaking on the Nightcap podcast last Thursday, Portis said every great story deserves a proper ending, and he believes that Cleveland could provide that for James.

“All books got story book endings,” Portis said. “I feel like this would be perfect. Go to Cleveland, they still got a nice team.”

He then added: “They got Donovan Mitchell, who can still get off, James Harden, Evan Mobley down low. I don’t know their salary cap or whatever, but I’m pretty sure that they can sign and trade somebody.”

LeBron James has already fuelled Cavaliers return talk

James has also added to the Cleveland noise himself. He recently liked an Instagram post showing him in a Cavaliers jersey with the caption “come home”.

That activity gained attention, as a third Cleveland spell would carry huge emotional weight. The 41-year-old was drafted there in 2003, returned in 2014 and delivered the 2016 title.

Still, the move is not simple. Cleveland are already close to the second apron, limiting their ability to offer James major money without reshaping the roster.

Portis’ prediction fits the romantic ending many fans can picture. Yet James’ future may depend on whether Cleveland can make the emotion work financially.