LeBron James’ agent, Rich Paul, casually mentioned that LBJ is now a “free agent” during a podcast interview. Fans believed it was a major slip-up from the renowned sports agent, especially since he had revealed that kind of news before free agency kicked off. Because of that, there are already rumors that there are teams interested in LeBron James if he really opts out of his player option with the Lakers and truly tests free agency this summer. Here are the 4 NBA teams that could pursue the 39-year-old superstar.
New York Knicks
The Knicks have wanted to get LeBron James ever since he tried leaving Cleveland. There’s no doubt that this squad can compete in the East and could even win a championship with the help of LeBron. In fact, New Yorkers want LBJ in a Knicks uniform. Obviously, they’re still not ruling out the possibility of James playing for New York in the Madison Square Garden.
Philadelphia 76ers
Before signing with the Lakers in 2018, LeBron actually considered the Sixers as his next landing spot—eventually, the bright lights of Los Angeles and Anthony Davis finalized his decision.
After a first-round exit in the 2024 playoffs, the Sixers front office is reportedly eyeing to add another star to the Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid duo. According to The Philadelphia Inquirer, the team’s main priority as of the moment is Paul George. PG will also be on his player option with the Clippers for the 2024-2025 season, and it is not yet guaranteed that he will still choose to stay with Kawhi Leonard, James Harden, and Russell Westbrook.
However, if Philly couldn’t secure a deal with George, their next target would be LeBron James. That is if LBJ would test free agency this year. Aside from LeBron, they also have their eyes on Knicks’ forward, OG Anunoby, a player who seems to get a lot of interest from various teams. Other guys on their watchlist are Brandon Ingram, Zach LaVine, and Jimmy Butler.
Phoenix Suns
One of the teams interested in LeBron is none other than the Phoenix Suns. Does it surprise you that the Suns are interested in holding a workout for Bronny James? Well, that move could be related to their interest in LeBron James joining Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal.
NBA insider Evan Sidery reported that the Suns are doing whatever they can to entice LeBron. It’s possible that they would draft Bronny at No.22 to lure his father. It’s a long shot, but it’s still possible.
But can Phoenix afford to add another expensive superstar to their roster? Aside from Durant and Booker’s huge contracts, Bradley Beals’ supermax deal worth $250 million is also on their payroll.
Cleveland Cavaliers
What’s a better story than “LeBron James returning to where it all started”?
Honestly, the Cavaliers aren’t much of a threat in the East right now. Even with Donovan Mitchell, a guy who can score 30 or 40 points a night, they’re just nothing more than championship hopefuls. Even if LeBron decides to bring his talent back to his hometown, it’s still not a guarantee that they’re going to win another chip. However, that would be quite a fairytale ending, one that everyone would probably like.
