LeBron James has entered free agency for the first time in eight years. Teams are eager to sign the 41-year-old for his concluding chapter in basketball. Reports suggest that every team but the Cleveland Cavaliers and Golden State Warriors might as well step aside.

Western Conference executives reportedly anticipate that James will pick the Warriors for his 24th NBA season. This is despite the Cavaliers being the betting favorites. Sports commentator Bill Simmons previously labeled a move to the Cavaliers as almost certain. However, some executives still consider the Warriors a significant contender for his signature.

A league source expects James to sign with the Cavaliers. Yet, many executives believe the decision likely lies between the Warriors and Cavaliers.

James, from Akron, Ohio, was the Cavaliers’ first overall draft pick in 2003. Notably, he left Cleveland in 2010 to join the Miami Heat. With the Heat, he secured back-to-back NBA titles in 2012 and 2013, alongside multiple MVP awards. He returned to Cleveland in 2014.

From 2014 to 2018, the Cavaliers and Warriors developed a fierce rivalry. Despite the Warriors’ three championships in that span, James led the Cavaliers to a historic comeback and victory in the 2016 NBA Finals.

James joined the Los Angeles Lakers in July 2018. He achieved a fourth championship in 2020. On June 30, he expressed gratitude to the Lakers in response to their farewell statement.

“No, THANK YOU! Truly an honor to wear the [purple heart emoji, yellow heart emoji] while trying to continue the greatness & legacies that came before me! Hope I made a few proud during my stint [prayer hands emoji, salute emoji, crown emoji].”

The prospect of finishing his career in Cleveland is appealing. However, teaming up with star players Stephen Curry and Draymond Green under the guidance of coach Steve Kerr could be tempting for James.