Report: LeBron wouldn't commit to Cavs beyond this season when pressed by Gilbert
LeBron James isn't making any promises about his future.
The Cleveland Cavaliers icon, who can opt out of his contract following the season, declined to commit to his hometown squad beyond 2017-18 when asked by team owner Dan Gilbert this past summer, league sources told ESPN's Jackie MacMullan.
At the time, the Cavs were exploring trades for Kyrie Irving after he requested to be moved so he could be a No. 1 option on another team rather than playing second fiddle to James. The point guard and his agent reportedly pressed Gilbert about James' future in Cleveland.
Since then, Irving was dealt to the Boston Celtics and suggested the Cavs didn't want him, which James said "makes absolutely no sense."
James, 33, is averaging a career-best 9.2 assists in his 15th season to go along with 27.7 points, 6.9 rebounds, 1.6 steals, and a block for the third-seeded Cavs, whom he'll try to lead to a fourth straight Finals appearance.
Related: Maverick Carter says LeBron's FA choice to be based on winning, not location
The four-time MVP has maintained he'll decide on his next career move at the conclusion of the campaign. The superstar - who's owed $33.3 million this season and has a player option worth $35.6 million for 2018-19 - has been linked to multiple teams in rumors, including the Los Angeles Lakers, Houston Rockets, and Philadelphia 76ers.
Cleveland is reportedly preparing for the worst, as the club is expected to hold onto the Brooklyn Nets' 2018 first-round pick, which it acquired in the Irving deal, in case James bolts again.