LeBron James’ future is once again front and center in the NBA conversation, and for good reason. At 41, he’s still putting up 22 points per game on 50% shooting-numbers that would be impressive for just about anyone, let alone someone in his third decade in the league.
But as the season rolls on, questions swirl: Is this the final chapter? Will he stay with the Lakers?
Or could a homecoming be in the cards?
That last possibility just got a serious boost.
According to a recent report, the Cleveland Cavaliers are interested in bringing LeBron back. Yes, that Cleveland-the team that drafted him No. 1 overall in 2003, the team he delivered a championship to in 2016, and the city just down the road from his hometown of Akron. The idea of James returning to the Cavs has sparked plenty of debate, and Draymond Green is all in on it.
On his podcast, Green didn’t hold back when talking about what a reunion could mean for Cleveland.
“They may still feel like Bron can help guide these young guys,” Green said. “Because it’s been a bit of a rough year this year, coming off from the year that they had last year.
They may probably think, let Bron come back here. The East is not as hard as the West, Bron can help these young guys over.”
Green’s not wrong about the East. While the conference has its share of talent, it doesn’t carry the same top-to-bottom depth as the Western Conference. That could make it a more manageable battleground for a veteran like James, especially if the Cavs are looking for a stabilizing presence to help their young core take the next step.
Cleveland currently sits at 29-20, good for fifth in the East. They finished first in the conference last season, but this year’s version hasn’t quite looked like a true contender. That’s where the LeBron factor becomes more than just nostalgia-it’s about leadership, experience, and yes, still some elite-level play.
Even if the Cavs don’t make a deep run this season, Green believes bringing LeBron back would be worth it for reasons that go beyond the hardwood.
“They could be thinking, ‘Ah, this young group that we thought just ain’t it. We might as well honor Bron and bring him back in.
We know what he does for the economy, for the city of Cleveland. And all of the business that goes on around the city,’” Green said.
He’s not exaggerating. LeBron’s impact on Cleveland isn’t just measured in wins and banners.
His presence lifts the entire city-from ticket sales and merchandise to local businesses and national spotlight. For a franchise and a fanbase that’s already seen him elevate them to the mountaintop once, the idea of one final run together is as emotionally powerful as it is potentially strategic.
Green wrapped up his thoughts with a sentiment that likely echoes what many in Northeast Ohio are feeling.
“One thing is for certain. I don’t care if LeBron James got one leg. The Cleveland Cavaliers should, would, and could, and better always be willing to have him come back there… because it’s so much bigger than basketball.”
And that’s the crux of it. This isn’t just about whether LeBron can still post 20 a night (he can), or whether he fits on a roster with rising talent (he does).
It’s about legacy. It’s about finishing the story where it began.
And if the Cavs are truly open to the idea, don’t be surprised if the King’s final act comes draped in wine and gold.