Potential LeBron James to Cavaliers Trade Receives Update

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ayomide Adeduyite | Last updated Jul 2, 2025 2:22 PM ET

LeBron James enjoyed a standout 2024-25 campaign for the Los Angeles Lakers, proving at age 40 he’s still elite. He averaged 24.4 points, 8.2 assists, and 7.8 rebounds per game and earned All‑NBA Second Team honors, but his efforts weren’t enough to keep the Lakers from falling in the first round of the playoffs. What soon followed the Lakers' premature exit from the playoffs were growing uncertainties about his future in Los Angeles.

Despite speculation he might test free agency, James picked up his $52.6 million player option for the 2025-26 season, ensuring he remains under contract. But that hasn’t stopped trade rumors from swirling after James' agent Rich Paul made interesting comments about evaluating what's best for his career (via ESPN's Shams Charania)

That speculation sparked widespread discussions, including the possibility of a return to the Cleveland Cavaliers, where James began his career. While fans and some analysts raised the idea, NBC Sports’ Kurt Helin reported that Cavaliers’ management does not really plan to pursue a reunion.

"A lot of fans tried to link him to a return to Cleveland ... league sources told NBC Sports the Cavaliers are not that interested," wrote Huelin.

The Cavaliers are not that interested in LeBron James, per @basketballtalk pic.twitter.com/PGDAeTgRPS
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) July 2, 2025

James spent the first seven seasons of his career in Cleveland after he was drafted No. 1 overall in 2003—leading them to their first Finals appearance in 2007. Following a controversial split in 2010, he returned to the franchise four years later, leading Cleveland to its first-ever NBA championship in 2016. However, it appears the Cavs are focused on their own young core and see little upside in trading assets like Darius Garland or Evan Mobley for a short-term return.

For now, it seems James will remain with the Lakers for at least one more season, while Los Angeles looks to retool its roster—particularly at the center position, which remains a top priority for GM Rob Pelinka.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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