James Harden simply wants nothing but for LeBron James to consider coming home to Cleveland and rejoin the Cavaliers.
James Harden fully acknowledges that LeBron James is wise and mature enough to make the best possible choice for his career, particularly picking his next NBA team.
James Harden
Position SG, PG
Age 36
Height 196 cm
Weight 100 kg
Birth place Los Angeles, United States of America
But for the former NBA MVP and future Hall of Famer, he wants the 41-year-old superstar to come home and sign with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
After sending his own message to James to rejoin the Cavs, Harden offered a new, intriguing statement in his recent appearance at Fanatics Games during the Fanatics Fest NYC festivities.
"Honestly, he's one of the smartest guys we've seen, obviously one of the most talented guys we've seen. So, I don't think anybody's pitch is going to move him. I think whatever decision he's going to make, he's going to make it based on his family and the things that benefit him," Harden claimed about James.
"I mean, for me, I think he would and he should go to Cleveland."
James Harden helps Cavs in recruiting LeBron James back to Cleveland
The Cleveland Cavaliers are generally considered one of the leading frontrunners in the LeBron James sweepstakes, mainly along with Eastern Conference rivals Miami Heat and the Philadelphia 76ers.
Teams competing for LeBron's commitment see the Cavs as a team to beat, considering the major storyline that the franchise offers once the marquee free agent joins them.
Many have been fantasizing about James making a second homecoming to Cleveland for the last dance of his illustrious career. He previously returned to the Cavaliers in 2014 following four decorated seasons in Miami, leading the team to four consecutive Finals appearances and the franchise's historic first NBA title in 2016.
James subsequently left in 2018 to sign with the Los Angeles Lakers.
Beyond Donovan Mitchell's active recruiting efforts, James Harden is also trying to persuade LeBron to choose Cleveland. Harden remains a free agent after declining his $42.3 million player option for the 2026-27 NBA season, with widespread speculation suggesting he is delaying his own new deal to help the Cavaliers create enough financial flexibility to pursue James first.
Now that James is on the verge of naming his next destination, Harden believes there's no better place for him than home.
"I mean, he's home, you know. That's what I would say," Harden added about the Cavs' free agency ties with James. "But like I just said, whatever decision he's going to make, I don't think anybody's pitch is going to move him."
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