Stephen A. Smith Believes Cavaliers Must Sign LeBron James This Offseason

Stephen A. Smith, an avid New York Knicks fan, was pleased to see New York steal Game 3 on Saturday night in Cleveland and take a commanding 3-0 lead over the Cleveland Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference Finals.

However, he was sharply critical of Cleveland's effort, particularly down the stretch as they attempted to erase a double-digit deficit.

"This is a disgraceful late-game show of effort by the Cavs," Smith posted on X. "Hate to say it, because I'm a Knicks fan, but it's just the truth: when you see this franchise quit like they just did, it needs someone who cares a bit more."

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Smith went on to suggest that if the Cavaliers want to build a championship-caliber roster, they should strongly pursue LeBron James this offseason, should he choose to continue his career and enter what would be his 24th NBA season.

"Someone proudly accountable to Cleveland. Yes… I'm saying it… they need LeBron James to return home to save the day," Smith added. "If THIS group is ever going to bring a title back to Cleveland. Seriously!!!!"

James still has to make a decision about his future, and it appears the Los Angeles Lakers will make a strong push to re-sign him. However, a return to Cleveland Cavaliers to finish his career where it began - and where he led the franchise to its only championship in 2016 - would be a storybook ending.

Cleveland also appears to be just one key piece away from becoming a legitimate title contender.

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This story was originally published May 24, 2026 at 6:11 PM.