In the next few months, once the offseason gets into full effect, the center of focus will be around LeBron James’ future with the Cleveland Cavaliers. There is no certainty at this point with regards to what he is leaning toward in his expected free agency.
According to Todd Fuhrman of Betboardpodcast.com, the Cavs are currently fourth in the odds to retain the 33-year-old for the 2018-19 campaign behind the likes of the Houston Rockets, Los Angeles Lakers, and Philadelphia 76ers.
Each of the teams ahead of the Cavs in the current odds has each been heavily mentioned as possible landing spots for James over the last several months. The Rockets’ success in the playoffs up to this point has likely pushed them ahead as the favorite given the slight betting edge. In fact, the Rockets have been mentioned during James’ strong connection with Chris Paul that extends off the court as the two have become close friends over the years.
Meanwhile, the Lakers have remained in the picture dating back to last summer when the talk first emerged. It also helps their case now that they have nearly created enough cap space for next season to bring in two top-tier talents on max contracts. Los Angeles possesses a promising and young core group of players that have already shown the potential to build something special over the next several years.
The 76ers have also become an intriguing destination with their significant improvement this season, winning 52 games while reaching the playoffs for the first time in six years. The front office has also put in place a pair of All-Star caliber players to lead the charge in point guard Ben Simmons and center Embiid. All of these situations each present an intriguing scenario for James that could be serious contenders to pry him away from the Cavaliers this upcoming summer.