LeBron remains intent on finishing career with Cavaliers

When LeBron James announced he was returning to the Cavaliers three years ago, he indicated his intention to finish his career in Cleveland.

A lot has changed since then, and a lot more could change with James set to hit free agency again next summer.

And yet, the best player in the game is sticking by what he wrote in his 2014 SI essay.

"It hasn't changed," James replied to a reporter Monday, and nodded when asked if he still plans to ride out his career in The Land.

"And that's why I sit up here today, still in this uniform, still ready to lead this franchise to a championship, put us in a position where we can be successful."

The 32-year-old forward alluded to that commitment to bringing a title to his hometown in his essay, writing:

"But what's most important for me is bringing one trophy back to Northeast Ohio."

It's worth noting, then, that he accomplished that goal with 2016's historic Finals comeback against the Golden State Warriors, which saw James lead the Cavs to their first ever championship while ending Cleveland's 52-year title drought.

That the 13-time All-Star already delivered on his promise makes it seem more likely he could bolt again. Maybe to play with his Banana Boat buddies. Maybe to play for the Los Angeles Lakers.

Related: LeBron says he won't 'cheat' team, fans with free-agency drama

The three-time champ averaged 26.4 points, a career-high 8.7 assists, 8.6 rebounds, and 1.2 steals per game last season, when he led the Cavaliers to the Finals for the third straight year (his seventh straight appearance). He's owed $33.3 million this season and has a player option worth $35.6 million for 2018-19.