The Big Lead

Stephen A. Smith names ideal NBA franchise for LeBron James to win another ring

Another NBA championship would do wonders for LeBron James' legacy, and Stephen A. Smith has named the ideal situation where he can do that.

By Divij Kulkarni

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James reacts to a replay against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James reacts to a replay against the Minnesota Timberwolves. / Matt Blewett-Imagn Images
facebooktwitter

LeBron James has been with the Los Angeles Lakers since 2018, but the landscape is shifting. Having acquired Luka Doncic, this NBA offseason is making it clear that the franchise is prioritizing its future with the Slovenian superstar and building around him.

For LeBron, the goal remains clear. If he can add to his tally of four NBA championships, it will add to his GOAT case. And while the Lakers have improved, it's hard to say that they'll be champions next season. Stephen A. Smith certainly thinks James will have to go elsewhere for his fifth ring.

RELATED: Golden State Warriors fans are growing tired of the Jonathan Kuminga saga

“Getting specifically to LeBron, why don’t you just come back to the Cleveland Cavaliers and end your career?” Smith said on ESPN’s First Take.

“This cannot be disputed, he’d have a better chance of winning the championship in Cleveland than he would in L.A... You come back to Cleveland. You bring the chip back to Cleveland, and you say goodbye as a five-time champion... If LeBron were back in Cleveland, Cleveland is the favorite.”

While the idea of LeBron winning another ring in Cleveland to end his glorious career sounds incredible on paper, it's next to impossible. The Cavs can't combine contracts to trade for him, and their luxury tax situation means they couldn't even sign him if the Lakers bought James out.

If there is to be a reunion, it will be in 2026, when James is a free agent. Until then, these are all just fantasies; the King will be focused on winning in LA anyway.

GET MORE TOP STORIES from The Big Lead by subscribing to TBL YouTube channel

MLB: Umpire Jen Pawol breaks critical glass ceiling in Braves-Marlins game

NBA: NBA 2025 Christmas Day schedule revealed

NFL: NFL owner Mark Davis models $14 million replica house after Raiders stadium

COMBAT SPORTS: Boxing legend Manny Pacquiao shocks by regaining number one welterweight ranking

VIRAL: Brewers star pulls rare Pokemon card during MLB team's wild winning streak

Home/NBA