Six Teams Remain Hopeful in Pursuit of LeBron James
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Veteran NBA reporter Marc Stein said on the “All NBA Podcast” released late Sunday into Monday that six franchises still believe they have a realistic shot at signing free-agent forward LeBron James.
According to Stein, the 76ers, Timberwolves, Heat, Nuggets, Warriors and hometown Cavaliers remain in the chase. “They all still believe they’re in with a chance,” Stein told host Adam Mares.
Stein added that James has not spoken directly with any of the interested clubs, leaving executives unsure whether the 21-year veteran plans to take meetings. Shortly afterward, Chris Haynes reported on NBA TV that there will be “no meetings, no pitches,” and that James will rely solely on information gathered by his agent, Rich Paul, before deciding where to play.
Stein and colleague Jake Fischer reported over the weekend that every suitor is prepared to wait as long as necessary. Within that group, there is growing sentiment that returning to Cleveland is the scenario to beat.
Brian Windhorst of ESPN echoed that view Monday on the network’s “Pardon My Take” podcast, saying nearly every team he has spoken with fears James will ultimately choose the Cavaliers. Windhorst clarified he was relaying other teams’ outlooks, not making his own prediction.
Despite holding only “low-level optimism,” the Warriors intend to preserve roster flexibility until James announces his decision, Anthony Slater of ESPN reported. Paul told reporter Mark Medina on Saturday that he does not expect his client to decide “anytime soon,” a timeline Haynes reiterated.
James, 41, averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds and 8.1 assists for the Lakers last season. He is an unrestricted free agent after declining his 2026-27 player option.
Source: Hoops Rumors
