King James isn’t done yet. The Los Angeles Lakers superstar, LeBron James, has committed to a massive $52.6 million player option for the upcoming 2025-26 campaign. Settling all rumors, the No. 23’s agent, Rich Paul, told ESPN that James has decided to suit up for a 23rd season in the league. This comes as a result of him eyeing another championship, which he and the Lakers failed to do last season after being humbled by the Minnesota Timberwolves. However, despite signing a new deal with the Purple & Gold, there seems to be a lot of speculation around James.
Although the 40-year-old superstar has committed his future with the Lakers, a few believe that there’s a path that could take him back to Cleveland for a third and most likely the final time in his career. While this dream felt a bit far-fetched, there was some hope. In fact, some still believe that the Cleveland Cavaliers could make a move for the Akron native. However, NBA analyst Kevin O’Connor has crushed those dreams, as he gave LeBron James and Cavs fans a harsh reality check.
“LeBron James to the Cavaliers would require getting under the second apron, which would mean losing Jarrett Allen, Darius Garland, and a third guy: probably Max Strus.” O’Connor posted on X. He stated that if Cleveland is serious about signing LeBron, it would require a significant sacrifice from their side. If you’re not aware, the Cavaliers boast one of the most expensive rosters in the league, and as a result of they cannot accommodate James’ massive salary without giving up a few of those stars.
The stars in question? None other than All-Stars Jarrett Allen and Darius Garland. However, they would even have to throw in another piece, which could be Max Strus, according to Kevin O’Connor. This would be a lot to give for a 40-year-old veteran, who might have a year or two more before he decides to hang up his shoes. Then again, it is LeBron James at the end of the day, and beyond wins, the Cavs base would like to see their man back at home. But is it worth it? Connor further explains: “It’s a lot to give up for a player who may not put you over the top and may have only one year left.”
LeBron James to the Cavaliers would require getting under the second apron, which would mean losing Jarrett Allen, Darius Garland, and a third guy: probably Max Strus.
It’s a lot to give up for a player who may not put you over the top and may have only one year left. Then… pic.twitter.com/pfT9VaPcAw
— Kevin O’Connor (@KevinOConnorNBA) June 29, 2025
Even though O’Connor attested to the fact that this move is too hard to pull off due to the financial implications, he did point out something interesting. “Then again, Allen has folded in the playoffs, and Garland is a tiny guard. Could trading them be a low-key salary dump for Cleveland? Then whenever LeBron retires, the front office would have cap flexibility to build next to Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley with better-fitting players than Allen and Garland.” O’Connor added. Indeed, the Cleveland Cavaliers have lacked that X-Factor.
Despite dominating in the regular season, as they did last season, the Cavaliers just don’t show up in the playoffs. So, O’Connor suggested that, after all, giving up Jarrett Allen, Darius Garland, and Max Strus actually might not be too bad for the franchise. That’s because they’d not only get LeBron James, but they would have financial flexibility once he retires, which would allow them to build a competing roster around Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley. Nonetheless, these are mere assumptions at the moment, as James’ agent made a bold claim.
Rich Paul makes a bold claim for LeBron James’ future
“LeBron wants to compete for a championship.” These were Rich Paul’s words as he told the world that LeBron James will be heading to Southern California for a chance to add a fifth ring to his collection. The Los Angeles Lakers star’s agent confirmed the news after months and months of speculation about the veteran’s future. While this strategy has become a staple for James, after the trades that went down last season, the fans wanted official confirmation from him or his team.
Mar 4, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) moves the ball against New Orleans Pelicans forward Kelly Olynyk (13) and guard Trey Murphy III (25) during the first half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
However, this wasn’t all that Rich Paul revealed to ESPN. The owner of Kluctch Sports also spoke about how the Lakers’ superstar envisions his future. “He knows the Lakers are building for the future,” Paul said. “He understands that, but he values a realistic chance of winning it all. … “We understand the difficulty in winning now while preparing for the future. We do want to evaluate what’s best for LeBron at this stage in his life and career. He wants to make every season he has left count, and the Lakers understand that, are supportive, and want what’s best for him.”
Paul shut down all the trade talks about James with his statement. He pointed out that LeBron James wants to compete for a title each season. Meanwhile, he also stated that the Lakers understand what James wants and are ready to provide it. We mean, there’s a reason Rob Pelinka and Co. executed the Luka Doncic trade last season and are extensively looking for players to bolster their ranks. The upcoming season will be massive for LeBron James and the Lakers as they aim to go all the way next year.
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