Cleveland Cavaliers star Donovan Mitchell has been pretty mum about the possibility of LeBron James returning to Cleveland in free agency.
Until now.
Donovan Mitchell Recruits LeBron James to Cleveland Cavaliers
GettyCLEVELAND, OHIO – NOVEMBER 25: Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Cleveland Cavaliers and LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers wait for a free throw during the first quarter at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse on November 25, 2023 in Cleveland, Ohio. 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 Jason Miller/Getty Images)
Mitchell was recently asked to share a recruiting pitch for James and he obliged, though he kept his message short and sweet.
“I mean it’s home, we’ve done it once, let’s do it again, simple as that,” Mitchell said.
This isn’t necessarily an elaborate pitch, but it’s something. Last time Mitchell was asked about the possibility of James joining the Cavs, he deflected the question completely, though in fairness to him it was right after the Cavs were bested in the Eastern Conference finals. At that time, Mitchell said questions about James should be directed towards the front office.
“That is not for me. I am not trying to get a headline. That’s not for me. I’m not going to answer that,” Mitchell said. “That’s a Koby Altman question, that’s a Mike Gansey question, because I know no matter what I say, no matter how I say it and how I try to navigate it, it’s going to be a thing.”
There has been a ton of smoke about James potentially returning to Cleveland, so it makes sense why people care about Mitchell’s opinion on the matter. He’s the current franchise player, and James’ return would have an enormous impact on him and the rest of the organization.
In addition to the Cavaliers, James is reportedly also considering the Miami Heat, Philadelphia 76ers and Golden State Warriors. Those organizations, and their fanbases, have all been waiting with bated breath for a decision from James. Luckily, it sounds like they won’t have to wait too much longer.
LeBron James Hints That He Plans to Make Free Agency Decision Soon
GettyNEW YORK, NEW YORK – JULY 16: LeBron James speaks onstage during the mind the game panel at Fanatics Fest NYC 2026 at Jacob Javits Center on July 16, 2026 in New York City. 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 Roy Rochlin/Getty Images for Fanatics)
During a live taping of his podcast at Fanatics Fest, James didn’t announce a decision regarding where he plans to continue his career, but he hinted that an official announcement could be coming soon.
“I won’t hold you guys up too much longer,” James said.
Hopefully that decision from James does indeed come soon, because fans can only wait in suspense for so long.
Donovan Mitchell Makes Pitch for LeBron James to Join Cleveland Cavaliers