As the calendar shifts to mid-July, LeBron James is still a free agent. Despite free agency being open for a couple of weeks, the 41-year-old remains on the open market. In essence, at his advanced age in basketball, James could be looking to sign his final contract as an active NBA player. As a result, taking time to land in the perfect spot makes sense.
While he does have championships, All-Star nods, and a room full of trophies, James may enjoy something that many icons, superstars, and legends cannot. Late in his career, James is still a 20-point scorer. Moreover, he can still be the focal point of a team. Yet, definitive clues as to where James could head still don’t exist. An NBA insider provided an update.
LeBron James Remains Unsigned, but Researching Teams, Asserts NBA Insider
The first metaphorical domino fell when news broke that James would not return to the Lakers. Then, a flurry of signings and trades from teams that jockey for position, as a legitimate playoff contender.
Now, with the first wave of free agency over, James remains the prized signing for a contender that believes that he could be the missing piece on their way to making a championship run.
However, without a stated direction, James’ status stays nebulous. ESPN insider Brian Windhorst provides an update, with the context discussing a media event attended by NBA owners in Idaho, starting at 5:36 of the video.
“A bunch of the owners are there, and they were chatting, and some of the owners who have are trying to get LeBron were talking to each other, and they were like, ‘Hey, have you heard anything?'”
The fact that people own teams and are still in the dark suggests James is keeping quiet.
“Nope. Have you heard anything?” LeBron is reaching out and talking to players on some of these teams. They report back to their GM or their coach like, ‘Hey, LeBron called.'”
In essence, instead of going through his representation or team officials, James decided to travel the backchannel route. Players, especially those who are friendly with each other, will provide honest assessments of topics such as team chemistry, team culture, and coach/management styles.
Reports think that James could land in a few places. First, some feel like a third stint with the Cleveland Cavaliers is possible. Donovan Mitchell just inked a massive contract. Evan Mobley is a low-post scorer who can finish at the basket, a trait that can utilize James’ passing ability.
On the other hand, the Philadelphia 76ers boast three superstars who would allow the forward not to have to carry the burden of being the cornerstone. The Miami Heat, where James won two championships, could add James to possibly form a dominant frontcourt with Bam Adebayo and Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Not to mention, the Golden State Warriors, who emerged as one of the favorites to land James, because of their veteran leadership, playmaking, and his friendship with Stephen Curry.
With nothing but speculation, James’ next step is the story of the NBA summer.
