LeBron James will not return to the Los Angeles Lakers.
As an unrestricted free agent, he has been linked to the Cleveland Cavaliers, Golden State Warriors, Miami Heat, and San Antonio Spurs. All four teams make sense for vastly different reasons. The case for each team?
Golden State would allow him to pair up with Draymond Green and Stephen Curry. Perhaps even Anthony Davis would get in on the fun.
The Miami Heat seem all-in on winning a title, and could use a playmaker of James’ caliber.
The Spurs are also in the title race and could use a point-forward. The West is a lot harder than the East, but the Spurs are a lot better than the Heat.
Finally, Cleveland. A homecoming fit for a King.
LeBron James to Change Priorities
In seasons past, signing with the Spurs would be a no-brainer. After all, they’re the closest of the foursome to winning a title, and between Victor Wembanyama and De’Aaron Fox, LeBron James could round out a new Big Three.
However, would winning a ring alongside Wemby really do much for James’ legacy? The folks who think he’s the GOAT will never be dissuaded, and the people in Michael Jordan’s camp are just as dug in.
A few years ago, James would have salivated at the idea of winning a fifth title. Now, even if he wins, it won’t be “his team.” All four options present somewhat favorable chances of winning a title. The Spurs and Heat are probably his best chance, but does he care? Or would he rather have a storybook ending alongside Curry, or in Cleveland?
In my mind, on the court, the Spurs are the clear fit. A lineup of Wembanyama, James, Fox, Devin Vassell, and Stephon Castle with Dylan Harper, Keldon Johnson, Carter Bryant, Julian Champagnie, and Luke Kornet coming off the bench would be the best in the NBA.
They can pay him an ample amount, as well, for a one-year deal. He’d get to chase a title and perhaps go out on top, winning Gregg Popovich his sixth ring with the Spurs.
Plus, the Spurs seem like a fun, close-knit group. But San Antonio isn’t home, and Wembanyama isn’t his friend.
Cleveland is, and Curry and Green are his buds. In theory, a lineup of Curry, Green, James, Jimmy Butler, Al Horford, and Kristaps Porzingis should also be one of the best in the NBA. However, health, durability, and age would all be concerns.
If you were James, where would you want to ride out? He isn’t short on choices, especially if he is willing to be a second, third, or even fourth option. With his legacy set in stone, should he march forward for one last season, or enjoy the show? That’s the difference between San Antonio and Golden State, and it’s hard to fault him for picking one over the other.
Leave a Reply