As the NBA Finals between the Boston Celtics and Dallas Mavericks kick off, LeBron James finds himself on the sidelines, reminiscing about better days. Despite being a pivotal figure in the Cleveland Cavaliers’ historic 2016 NBA title win, James can’t help but feel a pang of regret about not playing alongside Kyrie Irving anymore.
In a candid discussion on the “Mind the Game Pod w/LeBron James and JJ Redick,” LeBron didn’t hold back his feelings. “I would call Kyrie the wizard all the time. There was nothing on the basketball floor that Kyrie couldn’t do,” he said. LeBron’s admiration for Irving’s skills is evident, but so is his frustration. “I’m so [expletive] happy and so proud. And at the same time, I’m so [expletive] mad that I’m not his running mate anymore.”
LeBron’s Lakers exited early from the playoffs, which only adds salt to the wound. Meanwhile, Kyrie is in the spotlight again, this time with the Mavericks, sparking a mix of pride and what-ifs for LeBron.

Fans and analysts often wonder about the untapped potential of the LeBron-Kyrie duo. Their split in Cleveland was a major NBA storyline, with Irving forcing a trade to Boston. His journey took him to Brooklyn and now Dallas, leaving Cavs fans and LeBron pondering the championships they might have secured together.
Cleveland itself is in turmoil, searching for a new head coach after parting ways with J.B. Bickerstaff. The team’s future looks uncertain, much like LeBron’s feelings about his career trajectory post-Irving.
This raw reflection from LeBron resonates with many Cavs fans. It’s a bittersweet acknowledgment of what was and what could have been. While LeBron continues to build his legacy in Los Angeles, the shadow of his partnership with Kyrie looms large.
As we watch Irving lead the Mavericks in the Finals, we can’t help but join LeBron in wondering: How many more titles could these two have claimed together?