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Mitchell Says He'd 'Absolutely' Welcome Playing With LeBron

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Saturday, February 14th 2026 at 21:37 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: Ohio, California, UNITED STATES

Cleveland, OH - February 15, 2026 - Donovan Mitchell, the explosive guard leading the Cleveland Cavaliers, reaffirmed his long-held respect and admiration for LeBron James, stating he would "absolutely" welcome the opportunity to play alongside the Lakers superstar. The comments, made after Cavaliers practice on Saturday, immediately ignited speculation amongst basketball fans, despite Mitchell's swift pivot back to his current team and their championship aspirations.

Mitchell has consistently spoken highly of James, acknowledging him as a pivotal figure in both basketball history and the legacy of the Cleveland Cavaliers. His recent statement wasn't a departure from that established reverence, but rather a candid answer to a direct question about the possibility of a future pairing. "He's LeBron James. What more can I say? He's one of the greatest to ever do it. Just to be on a court with him, to learn from him, it would be amazing," Mitchell explained.

However, the 26.7 points-per-game scorer was careful to emphasize his unwavering commitment to the Cavaliers, currently fourth in the Eastern Conference with a 35-23 record. "Right now, I'm focused on what we've got going on here," he stated. "I'm not really thinking about that. It's just about this team, this season, and what we're trying to accomplish."

The timing of Mitchell's remarks is noteworthy. The Cavaliers are poised for a legitimate playoff run, building on a strong regular season and fueled by Mitchell's dynamic playmaking and scoring ability. A deep postseason appearance is the team's clear objective, and Mitchell seems determined to keep all focus on that goal. However, the Lakers, led by the still-dominant James, are also battling fiercely for a playoff berth in the competitive Western Conference. This creates an intriguing parallel - two star players, acknowledging mutual respect, yet locked in opposing conferences and playoff chases.

James, in a recent interview, returned the praise, labeling Mitchell's performance this season as "unbelievable." This reciprocal admiration adds another layer to the narrative. It's a testament to the professional respect shared between two of the game's most exciting players, even as they navigate their respective team's fortunes.

The Unlikely Scenario and Future Considerations

The practicalities of Mitchell and James ever becoming teammates are, admittedly, slim. Both are cornerstones of their franchises, and their contracts reflect that. James, even at 39 years old (as of February 2026), remains a highly sought-after commodity, and the Lakers are unlikely to part with him. Mitchell, just entering his prime, is the Cavaliers' present and future. A trade involving either player would require a monumental package of assets, making it a difficult proposition for any team.

However, in the ever-evolving landscape of the NBA, nothing is impossible. Free agency looms after the 2026-27 season, potentially opening a window for player movement. While it's highly speculative, a scenario where James explores free agency and considers a move to Cleveland - perhaps to mentor a younger generation and compete for another championship - cannot be entirely ruled out. This is, however, dependent on James' physical condition and desire to continue playing at a high level.

The Impact of the Statement

Beyond the immediate speculation, Mitchell's statement carries weight because it speaks to the broader allure of playing with greatness. For young stars like Mitchell, learning from a legend like James is a significant draw. It highlights the importance of mentorship and the desire to elevate one's game by surrounding oneself with exceptional talent. This sentiment resonates with many players across the league, and it fuels the constant discussion about superteams and player collaborations.

Moreover, it underscores the legacy LeBron James continues to build. Even as he approaches the twilight of his career, James remains an inspiration and a desirable teammate for the league's rising stars. His influence extends beyond statistics and championships; it's about the impact he has on the players who look up to him.

For now, Mitchell remains steadfast in his focus on the Cavaliers' playoff push. But his words have undoubtedly planted a seed of possibility in the minds of NBA fans, leaving them to wonder 'what if?' and dream of a dynamic duo that might one day grace the same court.