​Former four-time NBA champion LeBron James, a former Laker, could strain his relationship with the Cavaliers, a story that originally appeared on The Sporting News. The Sporting News should be added as a preferred source by clicking here. The LeBron James sweepstakes keep climbing, with indications that he is nearing a final decision. James has kept the process largely private, making his next destination the most talked-about mystery of the NBA offseason. One thing is certain: James was ready to end his relationship with the Los Angeles Lakers. He told the organization at the start of free agency that he would not be returning. “LeBron James will return for an unprecedented 24th season in the NBA — but it won’t be with the Los Angeles Lakers. James has informed the Lakers that the franchise can move on without him because he will play elsewhere, Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul told ESPN’s Shams Charania on Tuesday,” ESPN reported. While the Cavaliers’ exact standing in the pursuit remains unclear, they are still seen as among the favorites. Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson offered a significant hint about the team’s pursuit of James during NBA Summer League on Sunday, saying, “You guys know there’s a little free agency thing going on right now. That could be our real jump and you know what I’m talking about. That’s exciting too.” James is reportedly weighing roughly six teams. If he ultimately decides not to return to Cleveland, it could signal that he intends to play beyond just one more season and might disappoint Cavaliers fans once again. “Now it’s gotten to the point where if he doesn’t pick Cleveland, I think some people are going to be really mad at him… we have no other choice. And two, I think they’re going to be really down on the Cavs going into the season,” said Ken Carman of 92.3 The Fan. It’s no secret how deeply Cleveland fans took James’s first departure to the Miami Heat. This time, though, there is renewed optimism that he could come home for one final run. James is exploring options with a legitimate championship contender in mind, a factor that may outweigh concerns about how his decision is received in Cleveland. While another rebuff would disappoint Cavaliers fans, nothing can erase what James and the city achieved together by delivering the franchise’s first NBA title in the 2016 Finals. More NBA news: for better SEO. minimum 500 words.