The Summer of James

on 06 4, 2010

It’s the story that’s made headlines since 2008.  NBA owners and GM’s have been preparing for it since the day the man was drafted.  And finally, it’s arrived.  It’s, what I am dubbing, The Summer of James.

Look, I think it’s almost impossible to guess where LeBron is going to end up.  Quite frankly, I don’t even think he knows what’s going to happen.  That is what makes this so exciting.  The top contenders in the media, at this point, are Cleveland, New Jersey, New York and Chicago.  All have pretty good selling points—but all are relying on a “If we do this… then we do this…” kind of situation.

Obviously, getting LeBron James on your team would be the most successful move that could happen in this NBA free agency.   Here’s my breakdown of who I think the front runners are and who is most likely to take home this top prize.  Let’s do it.

Option 1:  Stay in Cleveland

This is simple for multiple reasons.   First off, you have the loyalty issue.  I’m not entirely convinced LeBron is the kind of player who would be satisfied with leaving Cleveland on the note he’d potentially leave on.  The series versus the Celtics simply was not the King doing what the King does.

My main thing is—when you look at some of the greats (Magic, Bird, Jordan), the majority of those guys played the majority (if all) of their career with one team.  I think it would speak volumes about LeBron’s character and his commitment to build a franchise if he stays.  The fans love him, the city loves him.  If he stays and the Cavs win a championship—he’s a hero there forever.  If he skips town and wins—he’s hated.  I think LeBron cares a lot about what the people of Cleveland think about him and that will seriously affect his decision.  Bottom line, if LeBron James stays in Cleveland, he will do for that city and team what Jordan did for the Bulls and what Stockton did for the Jazz.  He will be engrained there forever.

Option 2:  Chicago

After Cleveland, I think this is the second most likely option.  Chicago is a good destination because of that surrounding talent, plus they are going to gain a lot of cap space.  I’ve read theories involving a trade of Kirk Hinrich’s expiring contract.  If Chicago can put LeBron is a lineup with Noah, Deng and Rose—that team becomes amazing. I’ve also read that they are actively pursuing Chris Bosh, who would be insane in that starting five.  Plus, if they can manage to reel in a big name coach (Phil Jackson, perhaps?), I just don’t see how LeBron passes up that opportunity.

I think that if those cards turn out, the only reason LeBron doesn’t sign in Chi-town is simply because it’s Michael Jordan’s territory.  The LeBron versus Kobe debate gets staler every day… do we really need to see the Pardon the Interruption question: Who Was A Better Bull?  No.  That would be a pain in everyone’s ass.

Option 3: Brooklyn

I’m bias, but I think the New Jersey Nets are King James’ third most likely option.  I mean let’s just take a look at the breakdown here:

  • Brook Lopez is one of the best young big men in the NBA right now, and is only going to get better.
  • Devin Harris will likely bounce back from a disappointing season (stat-wise), especially if LeBron James is in his lineup.
  • Terrence Williams grew so much over the course of the season.  The last quarter of the year saw him playing excellent basketball for a rookie on the worst team in the league.
  • We have a Russian Billionaire for an owner who can go well over the salary cap.
  • We’re building a brand new arena in Brooklyn.
  • Jay-Z and LeBron are buddies.

I’m trying to be objective here, but this looks like a very good fit.  I think if the Nets get lucky and have Evan Turner fall into their lap in the NBA Draft—LeBron in Brooklyn may be his best bet.

No-Way Option: Knicks

You’ve heard New York’s cries for LeBron. I just don’t see it.  I get the glory of playing in Madison Square Garden and bringing New York a superstar.  But, to look at it in this point of view, how is playing for the Knicks better than playing for the Nets?  The Nets have more of a supporting cast and much brighter future.  The Nets are moving to Brooklyn in a brand new stadium—he would still satisfy that New York crowd.  I know the Knicks are much more beloved than the Nets, but still.  I think if LeBron really wanted to excite New York fans, he’d go to Brooklyn—they would be so much more exciting than the talentless Knicks.

Awesome Option: Clippers

Okay, I know this would never happen.  But look at this: the Kobe vs. LeBron debate has been played to death.  How awesome would it be if LeBron went, “You think you’re better than me?  I’mma march right into your city.”  Amazing.  Those two teams would have a serious battle for “home court” at the Staples Center.  The two best NBA players in the same city?  That sounds unreal.  Admit it, even a Knicks fan wouldn’t be disappointed in watching that (maybe that’s a stretch).

Come-From-Nowhere Option: Mavs

Let’s say theoretically, the Mavs lose Dirk.  Mark Cuban shells out whatever it is he shells out and brings LeBron to Dallas.  J-Kidd and LeBron on the same team?  They win a title next year.  I know they love Dirk down there, but what Mavs fan is upset about losing Nowitzki and gaining James?  None.

So there you have it—The Summer of James.  No one knows for sure what will happen, but come July 1, I know I will be watching every second of coverage.  You should be too

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