LeBron James is set to be a free agent on July 1 (as first reported by ESPN's Chris Broussard), and there will be no shortage of teams fighting for his signature. After four seasons in Miami, could LeBron be enticed to return home to the Cleveland Cavaliers?
That's cash Riley has already committed the organization to spend, through his press conference comments in strong defense of managing partner Micky Arison, promising that Arison will "do anything to get those guys to come back" and countering the conventional wisdom that Mike Miller was amnestied simply to save Arison luxury-tax penalties.The latter clarification (or revisionism, depending on your point of view), like so much of that press conference, was directed mostly at James, who made no secret during the season of being miffed about the Miller move. James also wasn't thrilled about the Heat's plan for the NBA Finals, so Riley's rare critique of coach Erik Spoelstra—saying he needs to "take stock" in the offseason when it comes to the defense—should be seen in that context. As should Riley's admission that he needs to reinvent himself somewhat, even at age 69. years, they can be better.
They can make things easier for James. James delivered enough during that time that he has earned the right to make them prove it. It starts with Riley, general manager Andy Elisburg and the Heat's front-office team identifying the players James most wants around him, taking their available resources and making winning pitches. Players like Carmelo Anthony who can handle some of the playmaking and scoring load, especially when Wade's unavailable.Players like Kyle Lowry who can pester Tony Parker or Chris Paul to spare James from having to do so.Players like Marcin Gortat who provide a reliable outlet down low, to turn more of James' passes into easy baskets.Players like Shaun Livingston or Trevor Ariza who can latch onto some of the more lethal wings, and save James from that responsibility on some possessions. Players who have now become greater possibilities after James put the burden on Riley.
It came at the price of some unease, not just among fans, but even players, such as the only Heat veteran who doesn't have an opt-out clause. "That's something that they're going to discuss with their families and their agents," Norris Cole told me on The Ticket in Miami on Thursday. "Obviously, I would love to have them back as teammates. You guys, it would great to have you back. You guys are all I know. I appreciate you guys. Please come back." That was a pretty good plea.Perhaps it's heard.But first, we need to officially hear from Bosh and Wade about their intentions.Then Pat Riley needs to come through.
Newsletter
My Cart
You have no items in your shopping cart.
Compare Products
You have no items to compare.
Community Poll
JORDAN TRAINING
4 Item(s)
per page
Grid List
No comments:
Post a Comment