Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James Has been linked to the Cleveland Cavaliers ahead of the February 5 trade deadline. Four-time All-Star Lou Williams addressed rumors of a potential reunion between James and Cleveland during an appearance on FanDuel’s “Run It Back” on Thursday.

The Cleveland Cavaliers will reportedly be “pleased” to welcome James back to the team for a third time if he plays this upcoming offseason. Williams believes the Cavaliers should not sign the four-time champion because his presence could change the dynamic of the team.

“Something has to be done in the offseason…the Cavaliers are still talking about competing for a championship without LeBron,” Williams said. “If you add him, it changes the whole dynamic.”

LeBron James reportedly wants to “finish his career” in his hometown of Northeast Ohio. He showed strong emotion after the Cavaliers paid tribute to him on Wednesday, even hinting that he may be on the verge of retirement as his career comes to an end. He was drafted No. 1 overall by Cleveland in 2003, returned in 2014 and won the team’s first NBA championship in 2016.

A mock trade proposal had the Cavaliers acquiring James Austin Reeves and Walker Kessler (from Utah Jazz). Another mock trade would send him and Bronny James to Cleveland, with the Lakers getting Darius GarlandDe’Andre Hunter, Max Strouse and others balance the salary.

Cleveland is off its second luxury tax pad, which limits how they can absorb a big contract like LeBron James without handing out a big salary. James has a no-trade clause in his contract, so any move must have his approval.

Charles Barkley weighs in on LeBron James’ future

Former MVP Charles Barkley made a bold statement about LeBron James’ future with the Los Angeles Lakers on Wednesday’s episode of “Inside the NBA.” He expects the 2025-26 season to be his last in Los Angeles.

“I’m sure of one thing – this is his last year with the Lakers. He won’t be playing for the Lakers next year. I’ve always said I’d like to see him end up in Cleveland. I have no objection to him being traded to Cleveland this year.”

ESPN’s Shams Charania also revealed on “The Pat McAfee Show” on Friday that James’ time with the Lakers may be coming to an end. He is in the final year of his contract with the Lakers and will become an unrestricted free agent next season. There is speculation about his next move, whether he will retire, re-sign with the Lakers or even join another team, preferably the Cleveland Cavaliers, the team he drafted.