"The Cavaliers are busy rebuilding their franchise these days, winning enough games to demonstrate progress and nurturing a dynamic rookie point guard in Kyrie Irving who seems to say and do all the right things.

Privately, they are enjoying the drama-free environment that has enveloped the organization. No more worries about "The Decision." No more national media descending on them to examine the exit wounds.

The Cavaliers' serene season, however, was pierced Thursday by a familiar source of commotion and controversy.

Former Cavalier LeBron James told reporters at The Q that he could envision himself returning to the team he spurned in the summer of 2010. While maintaining he's happy with the Miami Heat, James did not rule out coming back to Cleveland after the 2013-14 season. James admitted he made a mistake in the way he left the franchise and left open the idea of mending his fractured relationship with Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert.

News of James' comments traveled from The Q -- where the Heat makes its only visit this season tonight -- to the Cavaliers training facility in Independence in a matter of minutes.

Veteran Antawn Jamison could not believe James went public with the remarks two-plus seasons away from when he can opt out of his Heat deal. Alonzo Gee also was caught off-guard.

"It surprises me that he's saying that now," said Jamison, who played 25 games with James in 2010. "Three years down the road, it wouldn't surprise me if he entertains the idea. But hey, after the first go-round, I don't think anything would surprise you as far as scenarios taking place."

How quickly has the roster been turned over since James' departure? With injuries to Daniel Gibson, Anthony Parker and Anderson Varejao, Jamison is the only Cavalier playing in tonight's game to call James a former teammate. "