“You don’t have to hide your feelings Bron”, LeBron hurting tweeting this out knowing he stuck with Russ” - Fans mock LeBron James for his positive reaction to Donovan Mitchell’s trade to Cavs

LA Lakers superstar LeBron James showed love to his former team, the Cleveland Cavaliers after they successfully acquired Donovan Mitchell via trade. James took to Twitter to express his excitement. He responded to another tweet that was centered on how Cleveland has the pieces to contend and the backcourt combo of Darius Garland and Mitchell.

There were rumblings about LeBron James potentially considering reuniting with the Cleveland Cavaliers. But that was before he signed a two-year extension with the LA Lakers this offseason. The Cavs are certainly in a better position due to their roster construction to be more successful than the Lakers. James' addition could've potentially taken them to the next level.

However, he stayed put. With Donovan Mitchell joining the Cavs, fans mocked James for his decision to stay in LA. Cleveland are considered among the teams with the best depth. There's no doubt with Mitchell on the team, LeBron would've had a golden opportunity to win his second ring with the franchise that drafted him.

Lakers could still engage in a trade with Utah as they aim to maximize LeBron James' tenure in LA

The LA Lakers were mentioned as the third team that could've helped the Utah Jazz and New York Knicks reach an agreement for Donovan Mitchell. Utah coveted their 2027 and 2029 first-round picks. Meanwhile, a potential deal would've enabled them to offload Russell Westbrook's $47 million contract and help them land veteran role players.

Despite Donovan Mitchell not being the focal point of the trade, the Lakers can still engage with the Jazz for veteran players. Bojan Bogdanovic, Jordan Clarkson and Mike Conley are all options they could consider. They are remarkable shooters and will thrive next to LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

The Lakers have added Patrick Beverley to their roster, making their intentions clear of assembling a win-now roster. They are also interested in a deal with the Indiana Pacers, which could see them land Buddy Hield and Myles Turner for Russell Westbrook and two firsts (2027 and 2029).

Donovan Mitchell's uncertain future seems to have put a pause on the trade market, but with that out of the way, teams that have been quiet, like the Lakers, can be highly active before training camp begins.

About the author

Arhaan Raje is an Assistant Content Manager and Senior Writer with Sportskeeda's NBA/WNBA team with four years of experience.

Arhaan focuses on features, trends, listicles, and the latest rumors and reports circling the league's top teams and players. He emphasizes detailed research to create impactful content for readers. A fan of Xs and Os, Arhaan provides technical deep dives in his reporting.

Arhaan completed his bachelor's degree in BBA in Media and Entertainment Management from Mumbai, India.

Arhaan admires the killer mentality of Kobe Bryant and Michael Jordan. He respects LeBron James for being a role model on and off the court. The bold and decisive Gregg Popovich stands out as Arhaan's favorite basketball coach. LeBron's epic chase-down block in the 2016 NBA Finals has a special place in Arhaan's basketball memories.

He has interviewed former NBA Defensive Player of the Year Gary Payton and Ronnie 2K, the face of NBA2k and Marketing Director.

Sports isn't the only passion he has pursued professionally. Arhaan is also into performing arts in the music industry as a percussionist.

Know More