Each NBA team’s greatest free agent signing in franchise history

Cleveland Cavaliers: LeBron James, Small Forward (2003-10, 2014-18)

After LeBron James made his original decision in the summer of 2010, the Cleveland Cavaliers nose-dived down into the cellar of the Eastern Conference standings. They won more than 25 games just once over the next four seasons, including what was then a record for the most consecutive losses with 26 in a row.

The Cavaliers had struck gold with three No. 1 overall picks and were slowly building themselves back up after that tremendous heartbreak. Whatever process they were in the midst of went out the door when James showed interest in making a return.

Some deals had to be made in order to free up the money, but on July 11, 2014, “The King” captivated the world by announcing his return home to Northeast Ohio.

James’ presence immediately changed everything for the franchise just as quickly as it did when he left. Only this time, it was in the opposite direction, as Cleveland was now expected to contend for an NBA championship.

Coming off a run of four straight NBA Finals appearances with two championships, James was certainly a different and better player than he was during his first stint in The Land. That maturity was clear in the way he played and led with a newfound understanding of what exactly it took to win at the highest level.

The results speak for themselves: Four trips to the NBA Finals in four seasons with that glorious title in 2016, giving the Cavaliers their first in team history while breaking a 52-year championship drought in the City of Cleveland.

James had drawn the ire of fans for betraying his “hometown” team with a broken promise to deliver the city a title. By returning, he revitalized a passionate fanbase and delivered on a personal wish neither he, the organization nor the City of Cleveland will ever forget for as long as time exists.