LeBron James Eyes Storybook Return To Cavaliers

Merlin sees a possible LeBron James reunion with the Cleveland Cavaliers next season if he accepts a steep pay cut. ESPN’s Brian Windhorst said Cleveland could bring James back "if he's able and willing, and is willing to accept that money, I think it's 99 percent." That deal would be the veteran minimum or a mid-level exception. At 41, LeBron is still averaging 22 points, 7.1 assists and 5.8 rebounds, and alongside Donovan Mitchell and James Harden he could boost Cleveland’s title chances. A hometown finale would be storybook and still lucrative on a retirement tour. Merlin notes the hurdles: roster math, LeBron’s preferred role, and whether he chooses comfort in Los Angeles. If he takes the pay cut, Cleveland becomes an immediate contender; if not, the Lakers are the likelier landing spot.