James Harden Recruits LeBron James to Cavs in NBA Free Agency Video, 'Perfect Storybook Finish'
James Harden recruited LeBron James to the Cleveland Cavaliers in a video posted on Friday.
"I hope he comes to Cleveland," Harden said. "It's a perfect storybook finish. He's at home for his last year. But he's smart enough, I don't think anybody's pitch is gonna move him. So wherever he decides, obviously the team is gonna be a lot better."
The Cavaliers, Miami Heat, Golden State Warriors and Philadelphia 76ers are reportedly perceived to be in a group by themselves as potential suitors for James in free agency.
The Akron, Ohio native has spent the majority of his career in Cleveland after he was selected with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2003 NBA draft. James later helped the Cavs memorably capture a championship in 2016.
Cleveland is currently coming off a trip to the Eastern Conference Finals, although it was swept by the New York Knicks.
Still, the Cavs have an intriguing core for James to possibly join that includes Harden, Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen.
While Harden is a free agent after declining his $42.3 million player option for the 2026-27 season, he's reportedly been discussing a new contract with the Cavs.
According to Joe Vardon of The Athletic, Harden is waiting to sign another deal with Cleveland in order to give the team more financial flexibility to make a move such as adding James.
As the Cavs look to go on another deep playoff run next season, Harden is interested in becoming teammates with the NBA's all-time leading scorer.
