Inside The Heat

LeBron James Retirement Rumors Ignite After Kevin Love Exchange

Branson Brooks|
Jan 13, 2020; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) drives to the basket on Cleveland Cavaliers forward Kevin Love (0)during the second quarter at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-Imagn Images
Jan 13, 2020; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) drives to the basket on Cleveland Cavaliers forward Kevin Love (0)during the second quarter at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-Imagn Images | Robert Hanashiro-Imagn Images

In this story:

Miami HeatCleveland Cavaliers

There’s something special about reconnecting with old friends, reflecting on the moments that once defined your path.

This was the case for former Cavaliers teammates LeBron James and Kevin Love, who were spotted spending time together on some catch-and-shoot and off-the-dribble drills. The two won the 2016 championship with guard Kyrie Irving.

The two were also seen enjoying a sushi dinner together along with their wives, which sparked some controversy after James remarked, "I wouldn’t be mad looking at New York." LeBron’s wife, Savannah, also reportedly hinted she’d like to see the superstar retire in the next year or so.

James recently exercised his $52.6 million player option for the 2025–26 season. The NBA legend is set to enter a record-setting 23rd season, but he's reportedly still undecided on whether it will be his final campaign or if he plans to continue playing.

Some fans have speculated that James opting into a substantial contract amid his uncertainty signals a possible trade to jumpstart the Lakers' rebuilding process. The New York Knicks, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Miami Heat have been the fan favorites as potential destinations.

But even with James still as a viable second or third scoring option for a team with championship aspirations, is he worth mortgaging young players and draft capital for a short window? ESPN’s Bobby Marks believes teams likely won't explore pursuing the 40-year-old.

"He's making $53 million, in his last year of his contract, and he's 40 years old," Marks said on ESPN's Get Up. "I talked to numerous teams yesterday and asked that same question: Would you give up basically the farm and you'd have to give up four or five players to go get LeBron James for one year? The unanimous answer was, no, they wouldn't."

More Miami Heat News

Miami Heat Legend Dwyane Wade Makes Case For Best Career In Franchise History

Miami Heat Fans Applaud Davion Mitchell’s Return On Two-Year Deal

Miami Heat Forward Expected To Ink $13 Million Contract Extension

Published | Modified
Branson Brooks
BRANSON BROOKS

Branson Brooks is a journalism graduate of Howard University. He was one of the 2024 recipients of the Terez Paylor Scholarship award. He most recently worked for Scholar Athletes Sports Network as a High School Sideline Reporter throughout the Washington D.C. area

Share on XFollow BransonBBrooks