The Cleveland Cavaliers are off to their best season outside of LeBron James since the 1990s, even though their season ended early at the hands of the New York Knicks. However, a recent rumor suggests that the Cavs may have a secret weapon to lure back the best player in their franchise history.
According to Fox Sports’ Nick Wright, Cavs forward Evan Mobley’s ties to the University of Southern California, the same college that LeBron’s son Bronie James just committed to, could be key to persuading LeBron to leave the Los Angeles Lakers and return to Cleveland.
Admittedly, the rumor seems far-fetched for several reasons. The first is that Mobley only spent six months at USC two years ago, which raises questions about how strong his ties to the school actually are. The second reason is that Bronny James is expected to be a lottery pick, while Cleveland is not expected to be a lottery pick next season.
LeBron James may leave the Lakers after next season and Cleveland may tempt him back.
Besides, LeBron has repeatedly stated that he plans to play with his son in the NBA, and it’s absolutely certain that he won’t be with the Lakers, who don’t have a first-round pick next year. Therefore, it is likely that he will leave Los Angeles after the next season. That means whoever drafts Bronie James can also claim the NBA’s leading scorer.
Right now, it seems unlikely that the Cavaliers will be where a draft pick is likely to fall, though they may be motivated to try a trade, especially since Broni and LeBron James appear to be a package deal. After all, Cleveland somehow acquired Bronny James that would pave the way for LeBron to return to the Cavaliers for the second time.
If that happens, the Cavs will add a lottery pick and a Top 10 NBA player to their already talented roster. Cleveland already has a three-star and a rising star in Mobley. So, getting both James wouldn’t just be a great story; It would also make the Cavs the team to beat in the East.
All in all, LeBron has stated that he will be leaving the Lakers after next season. Plus, his next team will likely be whoever designs his son. Given that Bronny is projected to be a top 10 draft pick, Cleveland may not be in a position to pick him, but they may be able to move and handle a lead in the draft if it guarantees LeBron’s return.