The Decision II is upon us.
Yes, we have to call it that, because LeBron James has to decide his future — specifically whether or not he will opt out of the final year of his contract, and whether he will stay with the Miami Heat, old contract or new contract.
We are running a poll on this site asking readers where they think LeBron will play next season, and there are only three choices — Miami, Cleveland and Other.
Personally, I think it is almost a toss-up between Miami and Cleveland, especially with the Cavs having the flexibility to put the No. 1 pick in the draft on the market if it will bring them a player, such as Kevin Love, with which they can entice LeBron to form an all-new Big Three.
More on the possibilities of the Heat staying together or breaking apart in this video with CineSport’s Noah Coslov.
I don’t think LeBron will decide until some time after the draft on June 26.
Very unlikely that Miami can improve even if all 3 opt out and take a little less. Heat would have to forfeit players like Chalmers, Douglas, Jones and Lewis, unless they accepted Vet Minimum. Battier is already retiring and not sure about Ray Allen.
However, I can’t see DWade taking much less.
If all three reject ETO and stay with present terms of contract, then at best Heat wouldn’t be as good as this past season. Heat could re-sign Birdman with Early Bird, and if Ray Allen retires, Heat would only have mini-MLE to make team better.
Any way you look at it, Heat will not be as good as this past season.
Re: Cleveland, James will have to start talking with Love, because without assurance that LeBron would go to Cleveland, I can’t see Love giving signs of re-signing with CLE. CLE wouldn’t trade with Minny on draft night, without some assurance. However, a James, Love, Irving trio certainly would be more attractive that Miami.
There are also some possible S&T’s for LeBron, but can’t see him going to LAC with Sterling still owner.