Insider: Three teams keep coming up when talking LeBron James

The list of LeBron James suitors may be starting to narrow. Or something like that.

Appearing on ESPN with Stephen A. Smith, NBA insider Shams Charania said three teams continue to stand out when he talks with executives and sources around the league: the Cavaliers, Heat and 76ers.

“When I talk to teams around the league, when I do my research, the teams that come up are Cleveland, Miami, Philadelphia after it got Jaylen Brown,” Charania said.

That doesn’t necessarily eliminate other reported contenders such as the Warriors, Timberwolves or Nuggets. But it does suggest Cleveland, Miami and Philadelphia have generated the most momentum as James weighs the next chapter of his career.

At least, it does seem that way in the eyes of others. But remember, this is all guesswork.

At any rate, nobody should be shocked to see the Cavaliers on that list.

They’ve been connected to LeBron since before he announced he wouldn’t be returning to the Lakers. They’ve got a veteran roster, a legitimate shot to compete for a title and, of course, the hometown connection never completely goes away.

Philadelphia has generated plenty of buzz, too, especially after landing Jaylen Brown. Put Brown alongside Joel Embiid and suddenly the Sixers have another championship-caliber core to sell.

Miami? That one makes plenty of sense as well. The Heat already landed with Giannis Antetokounmpo, James won two championships there, and few organizations know him better. Add it all up, and it’s easy to see why Miami continues to be mentioned as a favorite.

Charania also noted that James plans to spend time with fellow free agent Draymond Green this week. While that naturally fueled speculation, Charania stopped short of suggesting it would have any impact on James’ decision.

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