INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - DECEMBER 20: James Harden #1 of the LA Clippers controls the ball against Lebron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers in the first half at Intuit Dome on December 20, 2025 in Inglewood, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
The Cleveland Cavaliers made arguably the most important deal of the NBA trade deadline so far. Cleveland remained an Eastern Conference contender before the trade, but they took a huge gamble on adding legendary guard James Harden to boost those chances. The hope is that Harden’s experience and taller frame will improve the team over forcing smaller point guard Darius Garland and Donovan Mitchell in the same backcourt.
Ashish Mathur of Cavaliers Nation reported that LeBron James is apparently part of the long-term plan in Cleveland’s move:
“All-Star guards Donovan Mitchell and James Harden are expected to recruit LeBron James to the Cleveland Cavaliers in the offseason, sources told Cavaliers Nation. Harden and Mitchell have relationships with James, who is open to leaving the Los Angeles Lakers for his hometown Cavaliers this offseason if he doesn’t retire, sources said.”
LeBron’s recent road game representing the Los Angeles Lakers in Cleveland showed the Cavaliers fans still holding strong love for him. No argument can be made against James being the greatest player in franchise history, and he led them to an incredible NBA Championship run. However, Cleveland apparently believes they can win one more title with LeBron on the roster.
Why Harden Helps Offseason LeBron Pitch
Cleveland clearly has a “win now” roster that will see them trying to contend for a title this season and over the next few years. More reports continue to leak about LeBron and the Lakers reaching the end of their time together once he hits free agency in the summer.
Mathur claims that Harden has a positive relationship with James, which makes perfect sense. LeBron has developed bonds with most of the other legendary veterans in the league to dominate over the past decade or longer. Harden and LeBron competing against each other for multiple MVP Awards certainly makes it likely they have mutual respect.
Mitchell is also close with LeBron as one of the best shooting guards in the league. James has shown respect for Mitchell during his rise to superstar status. Both players can use their past connections with LeBron to talk him into retiring at home with the franchise he helped put on the map.
Can LeBron Win Championship In Cleveland?
Most pundits would rank James’ one title with the Cavaliers as the most important of his career for good reason. LeBron defeated the rival Golden State Warriors by coming back from a 3-1 series deficit in a historic NBA moment.
Cleveland fans still cheer James like he’s a part of the team to make it an easy return to familiarity if he chooses to return in free agency. LeBron will be able to either outright sign with a new franchise or take part in a sign and trade for the other team to clear enough cap space.
Mitchell presents another superstar on the roster, and Harden adds another legend that is still seeking his first title. These three players and Evan Mobley make up a talented top tier of the roster with role players likely getting open shots, if this dream comes to fruition for the Cavaliers.