Cedi Osman has some big shoes to fill. Luckily, he has plenty of validation from the man who filled those shoes before.

The second year Cavs swingman, who is slated to start the season as LeBron’s replacement in the Cleveland starting lineup, is still maintaining the relationship he developed with James last season in Cleveland.

Osman talked about his relationship with James with Joe Vardon of The Athletic.

“I always text him because I have a good relationship with him, and I have to keep that relationship alive, even if he’s gone,” Osman said. … LeBron was a mentor to Osman. In their texts since camp started, Osman says James “knows I’ve been working hard and he said he’s excited to see what I’m going to do this year.”

James and Osman worked out together with Kawhi Leonard and Kevin Durant over the summer in Los Angeles.

So, for those who are worried that James has trouble connecting with younger teammates, Osman stands as an example that not all of the NBA’s young players are incompatible with the King.