It’s been six seasons since LeBron James last played for the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Cavs fans haven’t forgotten.
With his Los Angeles Lakers eliminated from the playoffs, James appeared on the court in Cleveland with his wife Savannah and agent Rich Paul for Monday’s Game 4 between the Cavaliers and Celtics. Boston won 109-102.
During an early break in the action, the Cavaliers greeted James with a tribute on the video board. The Cavs announcer then introduced him as if he had never left. Fans responded with a rousing ovation as if he were still a member of the team.
Fans across the arena stood to celebrate the hometown hero who played two stints with the Cavaliers and brought the franchise its first and only championship in 2016.
James took it all in and responded to the love by blowing kisses back to the crowd.
Where will James land this offseason?
So is there potential for a third stint for James in Cleveland? Monday’s love fest during Game 4 will fuel speculation as James approaches the offseason with an option to opt out of his Lakers contract. James has a home near his hometown in Akron and has not attended a Cavaliers game since leaving the team for the second time in 2018.
Where James lands — whether it stays with the Lakers or goes elsewhere — is one of the most anticipated decisions of the upcoming offseason. Cleveland fans would certainly welcome him with open arms. As evidenced by their performance in the second round of the playoffs, the Cavaliers have a competitive roster that James could improve.
Adding to the offseason intrigue is the status of James’ son Bronny James, who is at the NBA draft combine in Chicago and was medically cleared to play in the NBA on Monday after suffering cardiac arrest while playing last summer. USC.
Bronny’s expected to remain in the draft and would be a target for teams hoping to lure James this offseason. Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka watched him in Chicago Monday afternoon.
James, meanwhile, has remained tight-lipped about his plans, apart from statements shooting down media speculation and announcing he hasn’t made a decision yet.
I have seen and heard many messages about my future. I said it last night and I’ll say it again. I don’t know yet because all I’m thinking about is spending time with my family and friends! If I know after talking to the fam, my counselor if
— LeBron James (@KingJames) May 1, 2024
as well as my representation about it, then you will know. See you then 🤫. Love 👑
— LeBron James (@KingJames) May 1, 2024
Until he makes that decision, fans across the league — including those in Los Angeles and Cleveland — will have to wait and hope.
