The Cleveland Cavaliers are more than eager to bring back their prodigal son for his final act. LeBron James has stayed mum regarding his move in free agency, but everybody knows that he will always hold Cleveland in high esteem.
The Cavaliers, the New York Knicks, the Miami Heat, and the Golden State Warriors are considered to be the favorites to land James, who will enter his 24th season.
James Harden declined his $42.3 million player option to give Cleveland more financial flexibility amid its pursuit of the NBA’s all-time leading scorer. Harden and the Cavaliers are working on a new multi-year deal.
A reporter asked Harden about forming a “power trio” with James and Donovan Mitchell, and the former MVP responded affirmatively.
“That’s the goal. That’s the plan. Hopefully, we’ll see it in the next few days,” said Harden in the video posted by ESPN Cleveland.
“That’s the goal, that’s the plan,” – James Harden on a big 3 of him, Donovan Mitchell and LeBron James 👀👀👀 pic.twitter.com/YoDNaMgqp2
— ESPN Cleveland (@ESPNCleveland) July 19, 2026
Fans, however, quickly roasted the veteran guard for his confident remark.
“Sorry, James, but the Big Three would be him, Mitchell, and (Evan) Mobley. You would be a better sixth man,” said @BrownsLand.
“Big Two, LOL. Harden? You can’t trust this dude in the playoffs,” wrote @nut11thward.
“The Big Three is supposed to be figuratively, not literally, Harden,” added @PimpD27393532.
“The guy who turns into Cody Zeller in the playoffs is part of the Big Three?” asked @dipri31.
“My Cavaliers will NEVER win anything with James Harden on the team! PERIOD!” exclaimed @Sewerman69.
James showed that he can play with two ball-heavy guards on the Los Angeles Lakers with Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. The dynamic would be similar if he teams up with Harden and Mitchell on the Cavaliers.
Harden, who was traded to Cleveland in February, was widely blamed for their exit in the conference finals due to his poor performance.