While the Cleveland Cavaliers have seemingly emerged as the frontrunners, the Minnesota Timberwolves remain in the hunt for LeBron James. Thankfully, though, recent comments from Brian Windhorst indicate that LeBron actually won't head back to his home-state squad.
"I'm hearing stuff in other cities too. I'm not gonna say who, but I had somebody on the phone with me today that I consider a good source who was swearing it's a done deal in another city," Windhorst said during an appearance on ESPN Cleveland Radio.Â
Now, of course, Windhorst didn't outright mention Minnesota. Regardless, they are one of the teams in the mix for LeBron, and if he is reportedly not looking to sign in Cleveland, the Wolves' chances, in turn, go up.Â
Who knows, this could all be a smoke screen -- a storybook ending in Cleveland in some ways feels like the perfect way for him to close out his career. Without a doubt, though, Timberwolves fans should feel better about their ability to sign LeBron after this update from Windhorst.Â
The Timberwolves' chances of signing LeBron James get a boost after Windhorst's comments
The Philadelphia 76ers, Miami Heat and Golden State Warriors are three other teams in the running for James' services.Â
While it might not have the same appeal as a return to Cleveland, LeBron could take his talents to South Beach again, this time to team up with Giannis Antetokounmpo. Then there's the possibility of him playing with long-time friends Steph Curry and Draymond Green in Golden State.Â
Philly might seem like a wildcard, but they are well-positioned to compete in the East and have a clear need for an extra forward. Furthermore, LeBron's connection with new lead exec Mike Gansey is notable.
Having said all of that, you could argue that the Timberwolves are the best basketball situation for LeBron. He'd be playing with the best backcourt in the league in Anthony Edwards and LaMelo Ball, along with two elite defenders in Jaden McDaniels and Rudy Gobert.Â
As currently constructed, the Wolves sorely need another forward alongside McDaniels, and LeBron would fit like an absolute glove.Â
All of the other landing spots you can poke basketball holes in. Golden State has no shot of truly competing in the West, even with James. The 76ers are filled with ball-dominant players. Miami has no perimeter creation. Cleveland has no on-ball stoppers. Simply put, the Timberwolves don't have these same concerns.Â
Regardless, Minnesota doesn't have the sentimental connection, and playing in the West could be seen as less than ideal.Â
The point is that every team has a unique pitch or appeal to LeBron, and if a team other than Cleveland is indeed primed to sign him, it could be any of the four teams mentioned -- including the Timberwolves.
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