Rumors have been swirling about LeBron James possibly leaving the Los Angeles Lakers this offseason, especially after he picked up his massive $52.6 million player option for what will be his 23rd NBA season. As the Lakers look ahead to life after LeBron, speculation has ramped up that the four-time champion might consider a trade — and naturally, his hometown Cleveland Cavaliers were the first team people connected him to.
Things reached a fever pitch when a photo of LeBron training at the Cavaliers’ facility started making the rounds on social media, sparking talk of a possible reunion. But LeBron himself stepped in to cool things down. He responded directly on social media, clarifying that he’s worked out at the Cavs’ gym every summer since it opened — and that the photo didn’t mean he was plotting a return.
While his blunt reply doesn’t rule out the possibility of a future Cleveland comeback, it certainly throws cold water on the current hype. And beyond the rumors, a trade would be tricky to pull off anyway. Both the Cavaliers and Lakers would have to navigate a salary cap minefield to make a deal happen.
Plus, with a rare no-trade clause in his contract, LeBron ultimately holds all the power over whether he stays or goes. For now, there’s no official trade request on the table — but his public comments show he knows the world is watching closely.
LeBron James Shuts Down Cavs Trade Buzz After Viral Photo
