Cavaliers predicted to miss out on LeBron James, sign $305M Future Hall of Famer, 6-time All-Star

The Cleveland Cavaliers have been heavily linked to LeBron James since the start of free agency, with many viewing them as one of the frontrunners to land the four-time NBA champion. However, as the weeks have passed, Cleveland's pursuit has become far less certain.

James is a free agent for the fifth time in his career and now appears to be entering the final stage of his decision after hearing pitches from multiple teams.

“It’s decision time for LeBron James… The Leading suitors have been CLE, MIA, GSW, PHI, and MIN…. LeBron James has made it clear privately that he wants to go somewhere he can compete for a championship. Somewhere he feels he finds that happiness from a team environment and culture that he can uplift,” ESPN’s Shams Charania said.

If the Cavaliers miss out on James, they may have to pivot quickly before the remaining top free agents come off the board. CBS Sports' Robby Kalland believes Cleveland could target DeMar DeRozan if it is unable to land James.

“The most likely answer is that the Cavs fill out the roster with minimum-salary players and try to run it back coming off an Eastern Conference Finals appearance. Then there's DeMar DeRozan, who is the best available veteran free agent forward after getting waived by the Sacramento Kings, and figures to be an early call for a lot of teams that miss out on James,” Kalland wrote.

DeRozan is expected to be one of the most attractive veteran options for contenders looking to add another proven wing. Just last week, he was released by the Sacramento Kings.

“The Sacramento Kings have waived DeMar DeRozan, the team announced Monday, making the six-time All-Star one of the top free agents on the market. DeRozan had a partial guarantee on his contract for next season, but he and Sacramento worked on his release to allow him to find a new home. Multiple contenders are expected to have interest in the veteran guard,” ESPN wrote.

DeRozan has spent 17 seasons in the NBA, but he has not played for a legitimate championship contender in recent years. Joining the Cavaliers would give the veteran an opportunity to compete for a title during the latter stages of his career.

Over the course of his career, DeRozan has earned more than $305 million in contracts. Cleveland already has one of the Eastern Conference's strongest rosters, and adding a veteran scorer like DeRozan could further strengthen the team's chances of reaching the NBA Finals.

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