LeBron James hasn't officially announced his plans for the 2026-27 NBA season, but the rumor mill is already churning—and it's pointing toward a familiar face joining him in Los Angeles.
According to ESPN's Brian Windhorst, James is currently in negotiations with the Los Angeles Lakers, and there's growing confidence that he'll stay put. While whispers of a move to the Golden State Warriors have circulated—including a $15 million offer from the Warriors that raised eyebrows—Windhorst believes the focus remains on Hollywood.
“I think the focus right now is making a deal with the Lakers,” Windhorst said on ESPN Cleveland. “Right now he's allowed to negotiate with the Lakers and I believe they are negotiating, I believe they're going back and forth.”
ESPN's Marc J. Spears added that James is “likely” to return to the Lakers for the 2026-27 season. But the bigger story might be who he brings with him.
Kevin Love: The Reunion That Makes Sense
Spears also reported that Kevin Love, James' former Cleveland Cavaliers teammate and a key piece of their 2016 championship run, could be joining the Lakers as an unrestricted free agent.
“I'm also hearing that one of his old teammates from Cleveland, Kevin Love, could likely be joining the Lakers too,” Spears said. “He's an unrestricted free agent. I could see those two guys being reunited there.”
Love, now 38, isn't the All-Star he once was. In 37 games with the Utah Jazz last season, he averaged 6.7 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 1.8 assists. But he could still provide veteran savvy and floor-spacing off the bench.
A Low-Risk, High-Reward Move for LA
The Lakers would likely welcome Love with open arms, especially given his expected low salary. That's a sharp contrast to James, whose 2026-27 contract promises to be a hefty number—though James has made it clear he won't take a pay cut, as seen in recent reports about his stance on salary.
Bringing Love into the fold would also add depth to a Lakers frontcourt that could use another reliable shooter and rebounder. It's a low-risk move that could pay off in the locker room and on the court.
For James, reuniting with Love would be more than just a basketball decision. The two have a strong bond from their Cleveland days, and Love's leadership could help stabilize a Lakers team that has faced its share of drama. This reunion would echo the LeBron-Cavs reunion rumors that split fans earlier this year, but this time the destination is LA, not Cleveland.
Whether Love can still contribute at a high level remains to be seen, but if the price is right, it's a gamble worth taking. The Lakers are already navigating James' free agency timeline, and adding a trusted veteran like Love could be the move that keeps them in contention.
Stay tuned—this story is far from over.
