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Eastern Conference Superstar Calls LeBron James, 76ers ‘The Enemy’ Heading into NBA Season

LeBron James considered returning to the Cleveland Cavaliers over the offseason before ultimately deciding to sign with the Philadelphia 76ers.Had James gone to Cleveland instead, he would have been welcomed with open arms by Cavs star guard Donovan Mitchell. However…

By Michael Kaskey-Blomain · HEAVY

Published: Friday, 2 October 2026 at 7:05 PM

Key Things to Know

Donovan Mitchell now considers LeBron James 'the enemy' after James signed with the Philadelphia 76ers.
Mitchell acknowledged on In Motion that he thought James returning to Cleveland was a real possibility.
The Cavaliers guard emphasized that he respects James's right to make his own free-agency decisions.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell stated that he now views LeBron James as "the enemy" following James's decision to sign with the Philadelphia 76ers. Appearing on In Motion, Mitchell acknowledged considering the possibility of James returning to Cleveland during the offseason, but emphasized that James joining an Eastern Conference contender altered his perspective.

Mitchell respected James's free-agency choice, noting the veteran earned the right to decide his future. The Cavaliers and 76ers are scheduled to face each other three times during the 2026-27 NBA season, starting with Philadelphia's home opener on October 22.

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Eastern Conference Superstar Calls LeBron James, 76ers ‘The Enemy’ Heading into NBA Season

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