The Cleveland Cavaliers ran out of steam and suffered another disappointing playoff exit. The organization entered the season with championship aspirations, but was torn apart by the New York Knicks in the Eastern Conference finals.
The Cavaliers survived two Game 7s just to reach that point, calling into question whether they were ever truly contenders. NBA insider Brian Windhorst discussed Cleveland’s offseason outlook and whether it includes another reunion with franchise icon LeBron James.
Brian Windhorst Not Expecting Cavs To Pursue LeBron James At The Moment
Windhorst bluntly addressed the likelihood of James’ third stint with the Cavaliers coming to fruition, expressing doubts that it will happen.
Speaking on “NBA Today,” Windhorst said, “As of right now, the Cavs are only in position to pay the minimum salary contract. That’s three million dollars. LeBron made over $50 million this year. He has not given an indication that he is willing to take that kind of drastic pay cut.
“… If there’s a time that comes where we find out that LeBron is willing to take that type of pay cut, then we shall talk about that. … But right now, I think it’s wait and see.”
Windy on Lebron:
“As of right now, the Cavs are only in position to pay the minimum salary contract ($3M). He has not given an indication that he is willing to take that kind of drastic pay cut. He’s also about to enter into some level of negotiation with the Lakers. Right now I… pic.twitter.com/WHxSFCoviQ
— Oh No He Didn’t (@ohnohedidnt24) May 26, 2026
Windhorst added in a follow-up that Cleveland may explore acquiring Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo. The insider said, “I don’t think it’ll be long before you start to hear the Cavs attached to Giannis Antetokounmpo. If they put Evan Mobley on the table, what if they can turn him into Giannis?”
Cleveland has been linked to James throughout the season, as speculation swirled that the 41-year-old could find a new home if he elects to play a 24th season. Windhorst believes the Los Angeles Lakers will make an offer to retain James, though they are also projected to re-sign scoring guard Austin Reaves to a massive new contract this summer.
James proved during the playoffs that he’s still capable of being a primary scoring option in spurts. While there would be some nostalgia involved, the 22-time All-Star is still highly capable of helping the Cavaliers, and some fans envision him being the missing piece to get the team back to the NBA Finals.
However, Windhorst believes James’ return is unlikely due to financial restraints. While James has already made $581,375,548 in salary over his career, Windhorst doesn’t expect the future Hall of Famer to play on a minimum deal to return to Cleveland. Meanwhile, Antetokounmpo presents a younger alternative, despite dealing with injuries this season.
The two-time MVP wants another championship and has become frustrated with Milwaukee. While trading Antetokounmpo to a conference rival wouldn’t go over well with the Bucks’ fan base, Cavaliers big man Evan Mobley would give the organization a new franchise cornerstone.
At the very least, Windhorst suggests Cleveland will have to trade either Mobley or their other All-Star big Jarrett Allen, which would open a frontcourt spot for James, Antetokounmpo, or another big name.
