WASHINGTON, United States (AFP) — LeBron James will have an overhauled Cleveland Cavaliers supporting cast this season as he tries to reach an eighth consecutive NBA Finals and again dethrone Golden State Warriors as champions.

Four-time NBA Most Valuable Player James won two titles in four seasons with Miami Heat and begins his quest to match the feat with Cleveland tomorrow when the 2017-18 campaign opens against visiting Boston Celtics and ex-Cavs teammate Kyrie Irving.

The Cavs lost to Golden State in the 2015 finals but took revenge by winning the 2016 crown, James fulfilling his vow to bring a title to Cleveland, only to watch Golden State add Kevin Durant and roll to the title last season with a 16-1 play-off mark.

Several clubs made roster changes designed to challenge the Warriors, with the Cavs adding experience and talent at the risk of becoming an older team with injury concerns.

New Cavs guard Dwyane Wade, 35, was the 2006 NBA Most Valuable Player and is an ex-Heat teammate and long-time James pal, while new backcourt partner Derrick Rose, 29, was the 2011 MVP, but has been nagged by knee injuries for years.

Wade averaged 18.3 points, 4.5 rebounds and 3.8 assists with Chicago last season.

“I think he brings another championship DNA, championship pedigree,” James said of Wade.

Former Cavs guard Irving, who averaged 25.2 points and 5.8 assists last season, was traded to Boston in a deal that brought over starting forward Jae Crowder and guard Isaiah Thomas, who isn’t expected to play before January due to an injured right hip.

Shifting roles have meant Kevin Love taking a centre spot rather than serving as a forward and two more returning standouts, JR Smith and forward Tristan Thompson, have been relegated to reserves.