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Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James

For the next couple of months, the future of LeBron James will remain one of the NBA’s biggest questions. And while the Cleveland Cavaliers have bigger fish to fry at the moment, they will soon have their eyes on that situation as well.

LeBron James’ time with the Los Angeles Lakers could be up. The two-year deal he signed is set to expire when the new league year begins. Returning to the Lakers isn’t out of the question.

But going back to the Cleveland Cavaliers for a third and final chapter gained a lot of steam throughout the 2025-2026 NBA season.

The Cavaliers are waiting to see how the remainder of their playoff run pans out before making any massive decisions for the future. If they do want to take a chance on offering something to LeBron, though, then they aren’t going to like the legend Gary Payton’s prediction.

Gary Payton Predicts LeBron James’ Next Landing Spot

GettyOKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA – MAY 5: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks on during the first half against the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game One of the Second Round of the NBA Western Conference Playoffs at Paycom Center on May 5, 2026 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Joshua Gateley/Getty Images)

“I really think he’s gonna stay West,” Payton said on Nightcap.

“He built that big old house, he spent so much money over there, them kids is loving it, his wife, I don’t think he’s gonna come to the East because that’s gonna be a little toll for them to go back and forth. Like I said, there’s a good shot he could go to Golden State. If he leaves, he’s going to Golden State.”

While Payton made it clear that he believes the Lakers will do what they can to keep LeBron James in the building for the 2026-2027 NBA season, he’s sure that James would prefer the Warriors over any other non-Lakers team.

Bad News For The Cavaliers?

GettyOKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA – MAY 5: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts after a made basket during the first half against the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game One of the Second Round of the NBA Western Conference Playoffs at Paycom Center on May 5, 2026 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Joshua Gateley/Getty Images)

It depends. Everybody loves a good reunion. LeBron James’ first reunion with the Cavaliers was a major success. He’s the latest star to bring a title to the town. If LeBron’s final lap comes with the Cavs, it will be embraced.

Plus, James isn’t exactly washed up now. He saw the court for 60 games last season, averaging 20.9 points, 7.2 assists, and 6.1 rebounds. In the playoffs, he was the focal point for LA, averaging 23.2 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 7.3 assists.

The Cavaliers have to see their playoff run through before knowing what they need to do next. On Monday night, the Cavs tied up the second-round series against the Detroit Pistons at 2-2. A trip to the Eastern Conference Finals is very much in play. Until the Cavs see their season conclude, they can’t think much about LeBron right now.