Bill Simmons, The Ringer founder and longtime NBA analyst, went on the record with a bold prediction: LeBron’s farewell tour won’t happen in Cleveland. It’ll happen in Golden State.
“Golden State makes the most sense to me because they actually need him,” Simmons said. “And the narrative of I’m gonna finish my career with Steph Curry, the other great player of my generation. “
“I’m gonna play with Draymond. Steve Kerr, who’s coached me. And this is where I’m gonna end it. That makes more sense to me than I’m just gonna be awkwardly shoehorned into [a Cavaliers team] that had a chance to win a title.”
The Warriors’ path to acquiring James would require a significant pay cut. The most realistic route is the non-taxpayer mid-level exception (NTMLE) a one-year contract worth approximately $15.1 million.
“So yes, he could play for vet minimum next year on a title contender and still get compensation for his value,” Cleveland broadcaster Anthony Lima noted.
The Cavaliers remain the sentimental favorite. ESPN’s Brian Windhorst has been adamant: if James is willing to accept a massive discount likely the taxpayer mid-level exception of around $6-7 million there’s a “99 percent” chance he returns to Cleveland.
Donovan Mitchell has already endorsed the idea: “As a Bron fan, to be able to be a teammate, that would be special… it’s LeBron James”.
“Yeah, I mean, I want to live. When I know, you guys will know. I don’t know. I have no idea. I just want to live, that’s all”.
LeBron James at 41 remains an All-Star caliber talent: 22.0 points, 7.1 assists, and 5.8 rebounds per game this season. The Lakers sit fifth in the West at 34-22, with plenty of basketball left before any farewell decisions need to be made.
But the speculation is already here. Cleveland or Golden State? Homecoming or superteam finale?
Bill Simmons has placed his bet. The basketball world is watching to see if he’s right.