Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James sparked some chatter on Friday after he was spotted at the Cleveland Cavaliers practice facility.
However, it seems like the whole situation was overblown on social media. James took to X and said he’s been to the Cavs practice facility “every summer since it was built.”
And every summer since it was built. I live here still and train every summer. Got damn yall bored man! Go get a plate of food somewhere and enjoy the 4th of July!
— LeBron James (@KingJames) July 4, 2025
James has a reputation as someone who is very intentional with his actions, so it makes sense that some fans wondered whether his presence at the Cavs practice facility meant something, especially given the uncertainty surrounding his future.
But in this case, it appears that James’ summer routine simply took him back to the facility.
Around the same time James decided to opt into his contract for the 2025-26 season with the Lakers, his agent Rich Paul made some comments to ESPN that seemingly left the door open for James to eventually ask for a trade.
As of now, there’s no reason to believe that has happened, and the Lakers have even made some moves in recent days that may improve James’ level of optimism for the 2025-26 season with L.A. But until there’s a more definitive update on his future, the noise will likely continue.
The Cavs, who will forever be tied to James for a number of reasons, reportedly are not “that interested” in the idea of trading for him. Still, they would make some sense as the veteran’s final destination, especially given their championship aspirations.
REPORT: The Cavs are not “that interested” in trading for LeBron James, per @basketballtalk pic.twitter.com/QDTjOpcdhT
— Cavaliers Nation (@WeAreCavsNation) July 2, 2025
James just finished a season in which he averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds and 8.2 assists per game while shooting 51.3 percent from the field and 37.6 percent from beyond the arc.
His Lakers were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs after they were involved in a massive deal during the season that brought star guard Luka Doncic to Los Angeles and sent star big man Anthony Davis to the Dallas Mavericks.
Now that the Lakers have a sturdier center situation with newcomer Deandre Ayton joining the team, they should be in better shape to contend this coming season, but they still have work to do.