The NBA Free Agency Thread

[jtrain]

First of all if you actually read the post completely without just thinking HEY NOO KNICKS! Then youd see I said In my opinion. Right now even with Amare the Knicks arent a complete team what so ever, neither are the Heat, the only two complete teams with that one SF piece missing is The Nets and Bulls but Im saying Im thinking he signs back with the Cavs because he wants to play with Chris Paul, honestly

SO this is your opinion?

FOr the past 2 years it has been said that he wants to play with wade and/or bosh cause those guys are his pals...AND what happened

However rationally looking at your reasoning, no way he gives up 2 years of not getting a ring to wait on Chris Paul. Opportunity cost bro.........

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He is better coming to NY and talks are Melo wants to join him next year. ANd other talks that we will be getting tony parker or Raymond felton so the knicks are on their way to build a supporting cast for LeBron.

[EcKo151]

Dude I haven't seen Ric Bucher say a word in days...

Must be talking with his sources.

[Jetfanmack]

Or maybe ESPN doesn't want their sources scooping the station.

[jtrain]

624 has been real silent about his Nets since word came out that Bosh is teaming up with Wade down in Miami....

He must be changing those moronic percentages.

WHat do you think about the KNICKS chances now buddy

[Barry the Baptist]

Or maybe ESPN doesn't want their sources scooping the station.

Bingo.... they wouldn't spend a hour on the show tomorrow night if Bucher had the news today.

[Jetfanmack]

If LeBron goes to the Knicks, I'll have to eat a lot of crow. It'll make me kind of sick.

[ace_o_spades]

LeBron James will make his announcement on Thursday from Greenwich, Connecticut.

Alan Hahn of Newsday broke the news.




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neutral site..

[jtrain]

Why wouldn't you want him to go to the knicks?

if anything your city becomes less angry and agitated during the long months of winter and all through the spring

[EcKo151]

Can't confirm this but a Knicks source claims the location may be Allan Houston's house. Wow - Frank Isola Twitter

[ace_o_spades]

he then followed it up with

Houston's mansion is big enough to stage event but now there is word it could be at Boys n Girls Club in Greenwich


nobody knows shit lol

[Barry the Baptist]

If LeBron goes to the Knicks, I'll have to eat a lot of crow. It'll make me kind of sick.

It'[s weird but as a Nets fan I don't mind the Knicks, it wouldn't make me wanna throw up like him going to Chicago would. I dealt with 10 years of Bulls bandwagon fans, don't know if I could go through another 10. The Knicks have suffered a long time (most because of that jackass Dolan) but can't say I'd kick puppies if it happened.

[624]

624 has been real silent about his Nets since word came out that Bosh is teaming up with Wade down in Miami....

He must be changing those moronic percentages.

WHat do you think about the KNICKS chances now buddy

I think that the KNICKS have about a 20 or 25% chance. But it doesn't matter what anyone thinks this comes down to what Lebron wants, and if you haven't noticed yet no one values your opinion at all or really cares about it.

By the way, I still think the Nets have a chance, and I always have with or without Bosh, they weren't even given a chance at Bosh until a couple days ago and Lebron to the Nets has been a discussion previous to that.

[624]

At least one guy is happy no matter what happens:

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[Theo Huxtable]

624 has been real silent about his Nets since word came out that Bosh is teaming up with Wade down in Miami....

He must be changing those moronic percentages.

WHat do you think about the KNICKS chances now buddy

You're making me embarrassed to be a Knicks fan, calm down, you're being obnoxious.

[jtrain]

I think that the KNICKS have about a 20 or 25% chance. But it doesn't matter what anyone thinks this comes down to what Lebron wants, and if you haven't noticed yet no one values your opinion at all or really cares about it.

By the way, I still think the Nets have a chance, and I always have with or without Bosh, they weren't even given a chance at Bosh until a couple days ago and Lebron to the Nets has been a discussion previous to that.

:rofl:

I will always be more popular than you will ever be here on TGG...whether negative or positive!

BTW you never told us what 2 year college you are going to. What, you thought I forgot?

[624]

:rofl:

I will always be more popular than you will ever be here on TGG...whether negative or positive!

BTW you never told us what 2 year college you are going to. What, you thought I forgot?

I really don't give a shit if you are more "popular" than me on the internet, especially when it's for being a fucking retard who starts 10 useless threads a day.

..and I'm attending UConn and playing a Division 1 sport there, in case you haven't realized it is a 4 year school...

[Mr Electric]

Looks like the NBA Free Agency thread has evolved into a newer, suckier version of the Trash Talking forum.

[jtrain]

You're making me embarrassed to be a Knicks fan, calm down, you're being obnoxious.

Dude, I've been through hell the past decade. That's 10 years of my life. All through HS and College rooting for my Knicks and getting shit for it. So please continue eating your cookies. And let me handle the backlash

[624]

Looks like the NBA Free Agency thread has evolved into a newer, suckier version of the Trash Talking forum.

Blame Lebron for dragging it out and making us all hate each other.

[Theo Huxtable]

Dude, I've been through hell the past decade. That's 10 years of my life. All through HS and College rooting for my Knicks and getting shit for it. So please continue eating your cookies. And let me handle the backlash

I'm just sayin, you're being kinda obnoxious, it's not like the Knicks are the only team in the league. You've gotta have SOME respect. :up:

[624]

I'm just sayin, you're being kinda obnoxious, it's not like the Knicks are the only team in the league. You've gotta have SOME respect. :up:

You really can't expect jtrain to be smart enough to realize that the KNICKS aren't the only team in the league.

You have to respect his limited intelligence.

[jtrain]

I really don't give a shit if you are more "popular" than me on the internet, especially when it's for being a fucking retard who starts 10 useless threads a day.

..and I'm attending UConn and playing a Division 1 sport there, in case you haven't realized it is a 4 year school...

Ohhhh SHit we got a D-1 athlete in the house!! What sport?


btw you should go look through my thread history because obviously you haven't yet.

[EcKo151]

jtrain relax with the avatar bro.

[SettlerDawg]

Wow, Bulls front office believes that Lebron will be a Knick!

Updated odds:
Cleveland 40%
New York 40%
Miami 20%

[624]

Ohhhh SHit we got a D-1 athlete in the house!! What sport?


btw you should go look through my thread history because obviously you haven't yet.

Tennis and I made the school for grades and sports individually before you start crying.


...and why would I ever look at your thread history? I'd rather read David Clowney's twitter page.

[jtrain]

I'm just sayin, you're being kinda obnoxious, it's not like the Knicks are the only team in the league. You've gotta have SOME respect. :up:

Respect for who these Jet fans here on tgg that disrespect the JTRAIN all the time! Please, dude go eat your cookies man.

[jtrain]

Tennis and I made the school for grades and sports individually before you start crying.


...and why would I ever look at your thread history? I'd rather read David Clowney's twitter page.

Ok fine, then don't bother talking bad about my threads if you can't back it up

freeze....END SCENE

[17a_tailgater]

:rofl:

I will always be more popular than you will ever be here on TGG...


this has got to be one of the GAYEST post i have ever read on tgg.com since some fool admitted to being a bridesmaid.

[jtrain]

this has got to be one of the GAYEST post i have ever read on tgg.com since some fool admitted to being a bridesmaid.

happy to be one of your superlatives

[624]

Ok fine, then don't bother talking bad about my threads if you can't back it up

freeze....END SCENE

You are such a raging homo.


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[mj2sexay]

wow this thread degenerated into jtrain making a complete ass out of himself.

and settler, do you have a link for that? im not doubting you it just makes me even more nervous that they are now persuing boozer without the goal to be to lure lebron. i was hoping it was a ploy as i want carlos boozer on this team like i want the jets to go out and re-sign matthew hatchette.

[jtrain]

jtrain relax with the avatar bro.

LOL look at yours...you already got him in Uniform lol :beer:

[mj2sexay]

oh and by the way j train. even if that does happen, you're still two titles short of the glorious dynasty of the 90's.

[17a_tailgater]

oh and by the way j train. even if that does happen, you're still two titles short of the glorious dynasty of the 90's.

you guys never won 4 straight

[jtrain]

You are such a raging homo.


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what is with you and urban dictionary find me another source that defines JTRAIN - go do that NOW

[Mr Electric]

LOL look at yours...you already got him in Uniform lol :beer:

We all know that if LeBron doesn't sign with the Knicks, you'll be the biggest Miami Heat fan on the planet.

Do everyone a favor and spend all of the time you waste on TGG reading BleacherReport articles...

[624]

We all know that if LeBron doesn't sign with the Knicks, you'll be the biggest Miami Heat fan on the planet.

Do everyone a favor and spend all of the time you waste on TGG reading BleacherReport articles...

We don't want that, because he will post every one he sees.

[kinghenry89]

First of all if you actually read the post completely without just thinking HEY NOO KNICKS! Then youd see I said In my opinion. Right now even with Amare the Knicks arent a complete team what so ever, neither are the Heat, the only two complete teams with that one SF piece missing is The Nets and Bulls but Im saying Im thinking he signs back with the Cavs because he wants to play with Chris Paul, honestly
As I've said before, I don't think that the Nets being a complete 12 win team works to their advantage. Lots of players would accept the minimum to play with Lebron and Amar'e or Lebron, Wade and Bosh.

[624]

As I've said before, I don't think that the Nets being a complete 12 win team works to their advantage. Lots of players would accept the minimum to play with Lebron and Amar'e or Lebron, Wade and Bosh.

What was Boston's record before they got Allen and Garnett?

[mj2sexay]

you guys never won 4 straight

touche sir.

Pippen NEVER FOULED HUBERT DAVIS DAMN YOU! IT WAS BULLCRAP!

Before I get flamed for all the calls MJ got, obviously I'm kidding Knick fans.

[kinghenry89]

What was Boston's record before they got Allen and Garnett?
Garnett and Allen. Plus, Pierce was better than anyone on the Nets.

If the Nets could've signed Bosh or Stoudemire I would've believed that they had a shot at Lebron. I just have a very hard time believing that he'd leave Cleveland to join the Nets as they're currently constituted.

[jtrain]

We all know that if LeBron doesn't sign with the Knicks, you'll be the biggest Miami Heat fan on the planet.

Do everyone a favor and spend all of the time you waste on TGG reading BleacherReport articles...

If I went through a decade of melancholy being a knick fan why would I leave to go to any other team, let alone a childhood rival like the heat.

[Jetfanmack]

this has got to be one of the GAYEST post i have ever read on tgg.com since some fool admitted to being a bridesmaid.

Gayer than 8 guys blowing 9 guys.

JTrain. Popular. What a concept. You're lucky you're not banned for being a self-indulgent troll.

I think the Nets still have a chance, too, mainly because I haven't read a single thing negative about the Nets. Usually people just ignore them.

I don't buy LeBron to Miami at all. I can buy Knicks. I can buy Nets. I can definitely buy Cavs. I can buy Bulls. Not Miami, though.

[Italian Seafood]

this has got to be one of the GAYEST post i have ever read on tgg.com since some fool admitted to being a bridesmaid.

Murrell.

Yeah.

[jtrain]

Gayer than 8 guys blowing 9 guys.

JTrain. Popular. What a concept. You're lucky you're not banned for being a self-indulgent troll.

I think the Nets still have a chance, too, mainly because I haven't read a single thing negative about the Nets. Usually people just ignore them.

I don't buy LeBron to Miami at all. I can buy Knicks. I can buy Nets. I can definitely buy Cavs. I can buy Bulls. Not Miami, though.



I'm a troll Jetfanmack please define troll. If you look at my thread history I doubt a troll would be the first to inform you of the latest and much needed information to get you through your already stressful day

[Italian Seafood]

touche sir.

Pippen NEVER FOULED HUBERT DAVIS DAMN YOU! IT WAS BULLCRAP!

Before I get flamed for all the calls MJ got, obviously I'm kidding Knick fans.

Charles Smith got the shit hacked out of him at the end of Game 5 at MSG in 1993, by Jordan and Grant.

[624]

I'm a troll Jetfanmack please define troll. If you look at my thread history I doubt a troll would be the first to inform you of the latest and much needed information to get you through your already stressful day

This is definitely fake, you can't be this retarded.

[TheCoolerGlennFoley]

I'm a troll Jetfanmack please define troll. If you look at my thread history I doubt a troll would be the first to inform you of the latest and much needed information to get you through your already stressful day

You're at the very least getting a solid sports related thread off topic for BS reasons. Take a chill pill, relax, and move on.

With that said, I just can't see LeBron going to "Wade's team" in Miami, let alone to take less money.

[Jetfanmack]

You're at the very least getting a solid sports related thread off topic for BS reasons. Take a chill pill, relax, and move on.

With that said, I just can't see LeBron going to "Wade's team" in Miami, let alone to take less money.

Hence, troll.

Dwyane Wade refers to Dade County as Wade County. If LeBron comes, they'll win, but Wade will be bigger. He's already a star, and he's not a hired gun.

[Coach K]

I'm a Nets fan and I'll fucking believe it when I see it.

LeBron might just be someone who likes his ego jerked off and if thats what matters most than he'll be in CLE

I think Rose shitted on any chance CHI had.

Wade is worshipped in MIA no matter who he is hes not stealing Wades shine in FL guarantee it.

so in all reality its CLE, NY, NJ IMO and I'd rank the Nets last simply because were the Nets and people overlook the franchise as a whole.

That and we dont have another big timer in place to lure LeBron here. that being said I think Harris, Lee, T-Will, and Lopez would be a great supporting cast but Favors is raw and a prime PF wouldve been key in coaxing LeBron out of CLE.

and NY has one, we MIGHT have one in 2-3 years.

this has become such a circus I wont be surprised where he goes unless its MIA or CHI

[624]

If it's not the Nets I really hope he just fucks with everyone and goes to the Clippers

[TheCoolerGlennFoley]

Had the Nets won the lottery and taken Wall it might be a different story. But for now, I just don't see the appeal for any of these guys going to a 12 win team unless they brought along another star. And the only start left to me is LeBron.

[624]

Fuck you ESPN

"BREAKING NEWS" Bosh and Wade to sign with Heat.


oh thanks ESPN, It's not like I've known for 12 hours now.

[IATA]

They've had the breaking news banner on that since early this morning.

[Jetfanmack]

Al Iannazzone Al_Iannazzone

Bucher is reporting Boozer is going to Chicago. Nets miss out on another player. BTW, Avery was going to try and meet with Boozer tomorrow.

jadande

Boozer to Bulls is "done deal"

[624]

Al Iannazzone Al_Iannazzone

Bucher is reporting Boozer is going to Chicago. Nets miss out on another player. BTW, Avery was going to try and meet with Boozer tomorrow.

jadande

Boozer to Bulls is "done deal"

Was just going to post this, I'd rather have Lee anyway....I really hope we get him now.

36 Lopez
36 Lee
24 Favors

[Coach K]

Was just going to post this, I'd rather have Lee anyway....I really hope we get him now.

36 Lopez
36 Lee
24 Favors

thatd make us a Brian Scalibrine away from a ring!

:shit:

on a serious note I wanted Boozer but Lee will do while Favors is learning the pro game and developing offensively

[Jetfanmack]

5 years, $80 mil for Boozer

[mj2sexay]

no. no. no. no. no. no. no. no. no.

I'm gonna reserve the true flip out for when we don't sign LeBron, and grossly overpay Mike Miller. But I'm extremely pissed.

[TommyGreen]

That pretty much rules out LeBron for Chicago. It's the Knicks or Cavs at this point.

[624]

Lebron making his decision in Greenwich, CT

Is an audience allowed? I'm 45 minutes away....might have to check it out.

[mj2sexay]

That pretty much rules out LeBron for Chicago. It's the Knicks or Cavs at this point.

why?

Bulls still have max money to give. I'm not saying LeBron's coming, I think this was an awful move that reeks of desperation. However LeBron is now looking at the Heat with two superstars and a Bulls team that for better or worse can put out Rose, Deng Noah and Boozer every night.

[ace_o_spades]

How much cap space do the Bulls have? Boozer's deal starts at 13,793,103

[ToonWalker]

Hmmm, I wonder how Boozer to the Bulls affects things. Who the hell knows?

Now I'll say

25% Cleveland
25% Knicks
25% Bulls
25% Heat

I'm out on a limb!!

[mj2sexay]

How much cap space do the Bulls have? Boozer's deal starts at 13,793,103

Bulls after clearing out Hinrich had 30 million in cap space. Not quite enough for two max contracts...


but Boozer's deal isn't a max contract.

[mj2sexay]

Hmmm, I wonder how Boozer to the Bulls affects things. Who the hell knows?

Now I'll say

25% Cleveland
25% Knicks
25% Bulls
25% Heat

I'm out on a limb!!

HAHAHA How very Francesa of you my friend.

[EcKo151]

Was just going to post this, I'd rather have Lee anyway....I really hope we get him now.

36 Lopez
36 Lee
24 Favors
Oh really? And I think you blasted me for saying Lee to Nets.

[Barry the Baptist]

why?

Bulls still have max money to give. I'm not saying LeBron's coming, I think this was an awful move that reeks of desperation. However LeBron is now looking at the Heat with two superstars and a Bulls team that for better or worse can put out Rose, Deng Noah and Boozer every night.

Dude you said Boozer and every night in the same sentence, he's game to miss at least 1/4 of the season every year it seems.

[ToonWalker]

I'd be surprised if LeBron's decision was still a secret before his Super-Mega Fun Time Happy Hour aired.

[jtrain]

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A source with knowledge confirms that both Randy Mims and Maverick Carter are in fact in New York. No word about scheduled meetings however

[jtrain]

Oh really? And I think you blasted me for saying Lee to Nets.

624 is confused...let him be

[624]

Oh really? And I think you blasted me for saying Lee to Nets.

624 is confused...let him be

I think you have the wrong person Ecko, I never blasted anyone about David Lee.

..and jtrain, you know nothing about sports.

[Cakes]

I would rather James go to NY or NJ than anywhere else because I liked how there was life in the local pro basketball scene in the 1990s (Knicks) and early 2000s (Nets), but the one hour James show tomorrow night makes him look like a giant tool.
Down in Mississippi right now, Brett Favre is pissed he didn't think of this first. Maybe he'll copy James and announce he's returning to the Vikings via a one-hour ESPN special in a few weeks. Favre could do it from his farm on a tractor.

note- I don't really mean that about the Knicks, it's just that I have given up hope that he returns to cleveland

[ToonWalker]

I would rather James go to NY or NJ than anywhere else because I liked how there was life in the local pro basketball scene in the 1990s (Knicks) and early 2000s (Nets), but the one hour James show tomorrow night makes him look like a giant tool.
Down in Mississippi right now, Brett Favre is pissed he didn't think of this first. Maybe he'll copy James and announce he's returning to the Vikings via a one-hour ESPN special in a few weeks. Favre could do it from his farm on a tractor.

Yeah, I was thinking of the same thing.
I hope this doesn't set some lame-ass precedent for the super-diva athletes.

[southparkfanciz]

OK. so if Lebron doesn't go to NY and with Boozer gone. Who the hell is left?

[J.E.T. Tone Holmes]

i said i didnt want lee, and i still dont if hes getting more than 10 a year

oh well, we'll have to build through the draft. i hope the ping pong balls treat us right this time ...

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[MikeSLTJ23]

I'm curious to know why Knicks fans think their team is now some superstar hotbed. I'm not saying the Nets are, but probably losing Lee and adding Stoudemire really doesn't do that much for you. Do Knicks fans realize that Lee was a top 10 player last season in spite of being on the Knicks? You got a bigger name, that's all. I don't think you're going to get much better out of Stoudemire, if better at all, than what Lee did last year.

As for where Lebron goes, will people stop with the "it's the Knicks or the Cavs" BS? Let me point something out to you Knicks fans. Lebron is a global icon. Playing in Cleveland, he is a global icon. Recognizable everywhere. What does he need a "bigger stage" for when he's already an icon? Is he going to get more endorsements in New York? I don't think so.

If he's smart, he stays in Cleveland for the following reasons. First off, he cares what people think of him. If he leaves Cleveland, Ohio hates him. He can never go back without being hated. I don't think he can live with that.

If he goes to NY, he looks like a media whore, only in it for the fame. There are better teams he can go to than Amar'e and the Knicks. If he's in it just for the fame (that he already has pretty locked up as being the most famous NBA player), then that's just flat out dumb.

If he goes to Chicago, he'll always be in MJ's shadow. I'm sorry, but that doesn't sound like something someone seeking "best ever" status really wants. I don't care if he's a more talented player than MJ...until the championships come in droves, he'll always be in his shadow. I think this is the 2nd worst place he can go for that reason.

The worst place? The Heat. That team wins a championship easy, no doubt in my mind. But if you tell me a championship with James, Wade, and Bosh means something, it doesn't. Sure it will mean something to some Heat fans, and good for them. But to the players, they know who's on the team, they know what's expected, and something tells me even a championship with those players isn't the most fulfilling experience. Having 3 of the top 10 or 15 players in the league on one team ruins basketball, and I think they know that.

Lastly, the Nets. I'm a Nets fan. Why come to the Nets? No reason. Global status? Check. Brooklyn? Who cares. Can play alongside Devin Harris, Brook Lopez, and Derrick Favors? Who cares. There's nothing really enticing for Lebron to go to the Nets. I have no problem with that.

Cleveland could probably use a little help, but he doesn't need a "marquee" free agent to win in Cleveland, and they've proven that. Whoever keeps saying that the Cavs can't win with that squad, I want you to take a look at who had the best regular season record last year. You don't get there by accident. To say that the current Cavaliers roster is not fit to win is just flat out stupid. Stay in Cleveland, Lebron. If you're really that good, you don't need a marquee free agent, you don't need to go to the big city, and you don't need to expand your already prevalent global icon status. Win one for your hometown and everyone will love you forever. One Cleveland championship at this point of Cleveland's history would do wonders. Remember when the Saints won the Super Bowl and how excited that city was? I'm not comparing a hurricane ravaged city to Cleveland, but a win like that would be amazing for that city, and he knows how big that really is.

[jtrain]

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Intrade now has the Knicks as the favorites, and rising, while Cleveland is in decline and Chicago is about out of it. The people playing intrade have dropped Chicago out of the race. WOnderful everything is falling in place

Excellent *Mr. Burns*

[MikeSLTJ23]

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Intrade now has the Knicks as the favorites, and rising, while Cleveland is in decline and Chicago is about out of it. The people playing intrade have dropped Chicago out of the race. WOnderful everything is falling in place

Excellent *Mr. Burns*

If Lebron chooses the Knicks, he's in it for being on the "biggest stage" and only that. Not because he wants to win a championship, but because he wants to be seen. Say hello to your more talented NBA version of Kerry Rhodes.

[624]

Why is everyone so sure Lebron is gone though?

Did he really want to play with Boozer who left him high and dry years ago?

Is he really interested in playing with Amar'e and his balky knees?

Does anyone really believe any team is going to help create cap space in Miami for a Big 3?

Does he really want to remain in Cleveland with that crappy cast and few trade assets to improve, especially if they retain Delonte and his MILFing ways?

Does he really want to play for a 12 win team in the former car theft capitol of the US?

All these teams have serious flaws and downfalls to go with the highs.

And no one has the trade assets we do to go after Chris Paul.

We're still in this.

Byilieve.


Just saw this post on a Nets forum

[kinghenry89]

The worst place? The Heat. That team wins a championship easy, no doubt in my mind. But if you tell me a championship with James, Wade, and Bosh means something, it doesn't. Sure it will mean something to some Heat fans, and good for them. But to the players, they know who's on the team, they know what's expected, and something tells me even a championship with those players isn't the most fulfilling experience. Having 3 of the top 10 or 15 players in the league on one team ruins basketball, and I think they know that.

Winning a championship always means something.

And if you think that Lebron, Wade, and Bosh care about "ruining basketball," you're crazy. As long as they're making money and winning games, they'd be happy.

[MikeSLTJ23]

I also have a message to Barack Obama: SHUT THE F*** UP. Don't you have presidential things to do? I'm so sick of every big sports event requiring Obama to weigh in with his opinion. We get it. You're from Chicago. You like Chicago sports teams. You want Lebron in Chicago. It's the same song and dance every time. Enough already.

[624]

Nick Mangold 07/07/2010 07:28 PM ET
Wait a tick. LeBron, the King, is only getting 1 hour special to pick his team? Shouldn't he get atleast 3? 3 seems more fitting for a king


Haha I love Nick Mangold

[Cakes]

I'm curious to know why Knicks fans think their team is now some superstar hotbed. I'm not saying the Nets are, but probably losing Lee and adding Stoudemire really doesn't do that much for you. Do Knicks fans realize that Lee was a top 10 player last season in spite of being on the Knicks? You got a bigger name, that's all. I don't think you're going to get much better out of Stoudemire, if better at all, than what Lee did last year.

I mostly agreed with your post except for the Lee bit. You wrote he was one of the top 10 players in the league last season. Top ten in what? Whites? Power forwards?

[JetBlue]

If Lebron chooses the Knicks, he's in it for being on the "biggest stage" and only that. Not because he wants to win a championship, but because he wants to be seen. Say hello to your more talented NBA version of Kerry Rhodes.

that is completely asinine. if he chooses the Knicks it is because he believes with Amare and the impending third player the Knicks can afford either next year or at the trade deadline for someone who wants Curry's expiring contract that the three players make the Knicks as good as any other team in the league.

you really have to ignore the reality of what the Knicks have to offer to attempt to claim such ridiculous whining. the large stage of NY only compliments what the Knicks have to offer.

and any comparison between LeBron and Rhodes reveals far more negative things about you than LeBron James. of course, every whining, asinine post you've made in this thread seems to be done with the intent of revealing yourself to be a mockery of logical thought, so it is no surprise.

[Poeman]

Just saw this post on a Nets forum

Ama're has been playing on those balky knees since 05-06...Those knees have recovered



I am going to say this. I just heard from a little bird in his camp, King James and Spike Lee will be seeing a lot of each other next yr.
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[MikeSLTJ23]

Winning a championship always means something.

And if you think that Lebron, Wade, and Bosh care about "ruining basketball," you're crazy. As long as they're making money and winning games, they'd be happy.

Winning a championship in Miami wouldn't even mean a quarter of what winning one in Cleveland would mean is what I'm getting at. I mean, yeah, they've reached the ultimate goal. But they did it by stockpiling 3 of the best players in basketball. And it won't be "all because of Lebron". They'll all be sharing that spotlight. I really think it would mean a whole lot less. Honestly, it's a lot like when any big money team wins in baseball. The only people that really care are its own fan base. But not even that, it's that you EXPECT it. Like winning a title is your God-given right at that point. It just means less.

[Cakes]

and any comparison between LeBron and Rhodes reveals far more negative things about you than LeBron James.
maybe James wants to be in Lady Gaga videos, too

[Mr Electric]

Top ten in what? Whites? Power forwards?

White power forwards.

[MikeSLTJ23]

I mostly agreed with your post except for the Lee bit. You wrote he was one of the top 10 players in the league last season. Top ten in what? Whites? Power forwards?

You're telling me you're not signing up for a player who averaged more than 20-10 for an entire season????

[Poeman]

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[Cakes]

You're telling me you're not signing up for a player who averaged more than 20-10 for an entire season????

yeah, and tony campbell was a huge scorer for the T-Wolves and a scrub with good teams. orlando woolrdige had a huge season in denver one year and then was a bench guy for L.A. the next or something. you could look it up. Point is, I think Lee is good and only good. He is not a special player. Bad NBA teams don't lose games by average scores of 101-43. Even bad teams score lots of points and grab rebounds. Lee just happened to be a stat compiler on a bad NBA team. Again, good, nice player, but not a special one.

[jtrain]

I'm curious to know why Knicks fans think their team is now some superstar hotbed. I'm not saying the Nets are, but probably losing Lee and adding Stoudemire really doesn't do that much for you. Do Knicks fans realize that Lee was a top 10 player last season in spite of being on the Knicks? You got a bigger name, that's all. I don't think you're going to get much better out of Stoudemire, if better at all, than what Lee did last year.

As for where Lebron goes, will people stop with the "it's the Knicks or the Cavs" BS? Let me point something out to you Knicks fans. Lebron is a global icon. Playing in Cleveland, he is a global icon. Recognizable everywhere. What does he need a "bigger stage" for when he's already an icon? Is he going to get more endorsements in New York? I don't think so.

If he's smart, he stays in Cleveland for the following reasons. First off, he cares what people think of him. If he leaves Cleveland, Ohio hates him. He can never go back without being hated. I don't think he can live with that.

If he goes to NY, he looks like a media whore, only in it for the fame. There are better teams he can go to than Amar'e and the Knicks. If he's in it just for the fame (that he already has pretty locked up as being the most famous NBA player), then that's just flat out dumb.

If he goes to Chicago, he'll always be in MJ's shadow. I'm sorry, but that doesn't sound like something someone seeking "best ever" status really wants. I don't care if he's a more talented player than MJ...until the championships come in droves, he'll always be in his shadow. I think this is the 2nd worst place he can go for that reason.

The worst place? The Heat. That team wins a championship easy, no doubt in my mind. But if you tell me a championship with James, Wade, and Bosh means something, it doesn't. Sure it will mean something to some Heat fans, and good for them. But to the players, they know who's on the team, they know what's expected, and something tells me even a championship with those players isn't the most fulfilling experience. Having 3 of the top 10 or 15 players in the league on one team ruins basketball, and I think they know that.

Lastly, the Nets. I'm a Nets fan. Why come to the Nets? No reason. Global status? Check. Brooklyn? Who cares. Can play alongside Devin Harris, Brook Lopez, and Derrick Favors? Who cares. There's nothing really enticing for Lebron to go to the Nets. I have no problem with that.

Cleveland could probably use a little help, but he doesn't need a "marquee" free agent to win in Cleveland, and they've proven that. Whoever keeps saying that the Cavs can't win with that squad, I want you to take a look at who had the best regular season record last year. You don't get there by accident. To say that the current Cavaliers roster is not fit to win is just flat out stupid. Stay in Cleveland, Lebron. If you're really that good, you don't need a marquee free agent, you don't need to go to the big city, and you don't need to expand your already prevalent global icon status. Win one for your hometown and everyone will love you forever. One Cleveland championship at this point of Cleveland's history would do wonders. Remember when the Saints won the Super Bowl and how excited that city was? I'm not comparing a hurricane ravaged city to Cleveland, but a win like that would be amazing for that city, and he knows how big that really is.

Let's just hope LeBron doesn't read your post. You bring up excellent points and I respect that you realize that your favorite team (Nets) have an unattractive appeal to LeBron. I applaud you.


I like lee better. best bang for the buck. But one of the reasons I love the Amar'e signing is because of his bait value. He is the GREAT BIG BAIT to reel in the BIG FISH(s)...

MELO LEBRON AMAR'E vs WADE LEBRON BOSH

would you compare the two
would lebron not be glorified as much if he wins it with two stars next to him.

You do realize who Jordan had right?

With out Pippen there is no way Jordan wins those rings.

Kobe needed shaq
kobe needed Gasol/Artest

LeBron has no one and if he remains and wins 1 ring good for him but the man wants more. He wants RINGS and FAME will come along with it when he signs with NY tomorrow.

[MikeSLTJ23]

that is completely asinine. if he chooses the Knicks it is because he believes with Amare and the impending third player the Knicks can afford either next year or at the trade deadline for someone who wants Curry's expiring contract that the three players make the Knicks as good as any other team in the league.

you really have to ignore the reality of what the Knicks have to offer to attempt to claim such ridiculous whining. the large stage of NY only compliments what the Knicks have to offer.

and any comparison between LeBron and Rhodes reveals far more negative things about you than LeBron James. of course, every whining, asinine post you've made in this thread seems to be done with the intent of revealing yourself to be a mockery of logical thought, so it is no surprise.

Who's whining???? I'm a Nets fan, and I'm saying he shouldn't go to the Nets. Any logical person who looks at the regular season last year knows the Cavs have what it takes. They just faltered when it mattered most. To even suggest that going to the Knicks to probably an equally competitive team makes sense other than to be on a bigger stage is asinine.

Stop trying to put this on me, when in actuality, it's all about what the Knicks have to offer, which really isn't much more than what he already has in Cleveland. I'm merely pointing out that Cleveland has a solid team and shouldn't be written off now that the Knicks got Stoudemire. The large stage is the biggest offer NY has to offer. The Cavs have every opportunity to improve their team in the same way the Knicks have. I wouldn't write off Jamison and Mo Williams the way people are.

You're a typical fan, blinded by what you have, and ignoring that other teams have just as much value. The comparison of what Lebron WOULD be if he went to the Knicks and what Kerry Rhodes is makes sense. When you're in it for the fame, you're in it for the fame. And I'm convinced going to the Knicks is exactly that when he's got everything he needs right in Cleveland. Mockery of logical thought. I've got plenty of choice words for you that I'll keep to myself just for that unnecessary and immature line.

[Coach K]

I think Nets fans need to stop getting their hopes up. Thats why, as a Nets fan, after 12 wins, and being raped in the lottery, it only makes sense to strike out in FA.

i think any of us making a case for the Nets are giving LeBron too much credit to see the big picture. the guys a basketball player not a rocket scientist.

oh well the only good thing about living down here is not too many nets games get broadcasted. so i dont have to watch another repeat performance.

[MikeSLTJ23]

yeah, and tony campbell was a huge scorer for the T-Wolves and a scrub with good teams. orlando woolrdige had a huge season in denver one year and then was a bench guy for L.A. the next or something. you could look it up. Point is, I think Lee is good and only good. He is not a special player. Bad NBA teams don't lose games by average scores of 101-43. Even bad teams score lots of points and grab rebounds. Lee just happened to be a stat compiler on a bad NBA team. Again, good, nice player, but not a special one.

I agree 100%. And I think Stoudemire is without question better. But I don't think it's a landslide runaway that the Knicks just became some elite team by making that switch. Stoudemire isn't a special player either in my opinion. But like I said, without question, he's very good and better than Lee.

[JetBlue]

Who's whining???? I'm a Nets fan, and I'm saying he shouldn't go to the Nets. Any logical person who looks at the regular season last year knows the Cavs have what it takes. They just faltered when it mattered most. To even suggest that going to the Knicks to probably an equally competitive team makes sense other than to be on a bigger stage is asinine.

Stop trying to put this on me, when in actuality, it's all about what the Knicks have to offer, which really isn't much more than what he already has in Cleveland. I'm merely pointing out that Cleveland has a solid team and shouldn't be written off now that the Knicks got Stoudemire. The large stage is the biggest offer NY has to offer. The Cavs have every opportunity to improve their team in the same way the Knicks have. I wouldn't write off Jamison and Mo Williams the way people are.

You're a typical fan, blinded by what you have, and ignoring that other teams have just as much value. The comparison of what Lebron WOULD be if he went to the Knicks and what Kerry Rhodes is makes sense. When you're in it for the fame, you're in it for the fame. And I'm convinced going to the Knicks is exactly that when he's got everything he needs right in Cleveland. Mockery of logical thought. I've got plenty of choice words for you that I'll keep to myself just for that unnecessary and immature line.

being aware of what the Knicks have to offer isn't the same as being blinded by it. the question is why are you blinded to the facts of what the Knicks have to offer. the fact that you are even questioning the value of the New York market and appeal of the Knicks in that market only validates what I said.

[MikeSLTJ23]

Let's just hope LeBron doesn't read your post. You bring up excellent points and I respect that you realize that your favorite team (Nets) have an unattractive appeal to LeBron. I applaud you.


I like lee better. best bang for the buck. But one of the reasons I love the Amar'e signing is because of his bait value. He is the GREAT BIG BAIT to reel in the BIG FISH(s)...

MELO LEBRON AMAR'E vs WADE LEBRON BOSH

would you compare the two
would lebron not be glorified as much if he wins it with two stars next to him.

You do realize who Jordan had right?

With out Pippen there is no way Jordan wins those rings.

Kobe needed shaq
kobe needed Gasol/Artest

LeBron has no one and if he remains and wins 1 ring good for him but the man wants more. He wants RINGS and FAME will come along with it when he signs with NY tomorrow.

Lebron with one other VERY GOOD player has a lot of appeal. You win with that, and it makes sense. But you can't tell me that combining 3 superstars doesn't lessen an appeal of a championship (at least for the NBA fan base if not for the champions). Yes, obviously they want to win, but when you have 3 super stars and EVERYONE goes into the season saying they can't lose, well, where's the appeal? It's bad for basketball. Hell, I thought it was bad for basketball when the Celtics got Pierce, Garnett, and Allen all on one team. And that trio isn't even in the same league as what we're talking about!

My main argument is that the team with the best record in the regular season should be without question able to win the championship. Them blowing it in the playoffs probably says more about Lebron than anything. But they have the talent and people are just ignoring that. They just choke when it counts. Win one in the state you grew up in, a city that's failed for so long, and still has the talent despite what people are saying.

[Cakes]

It would be just like any other day in scenic Cleveland.

Interesting. An appearance in this thread by a self-described basketball hater. Might KOZ actually be a Knicks who was in hiding for a decade and is hoping that tomorrow night between 9 and 10 will be time to come out of the woodwork? This is almost as interesting as where James will sign.

[Jerseyboyisback]

Lebron has to go to the Knicks or bulls now that they got boozer. I do not see him going to Miami cause he wouldnt be a super star. So either NY or chicago and in NY he will be famous!! We will have to wait and see.

[MikeSLTJ23]

being aware of what the Knicks have to offer isn't the same as being blinded by it. the question is why are you blinded to the facts of what the Knicks have to offer. the fact that you are even questioning the value of the New York market and appeal of the Knicks in that market only validates what I said.

I disagree. I don't understand the appeal of the New York market when he's already well beyond the New York market. He's a global icon already. He has nothing left to accomplish in that sector. Lebron's big stage is wherever he is. Him going to NY? He's already bigger than MSG. If the Knicks get him, congratulations. I understand their appeal when it comes to their current and potential players, but then again, if that's what he was going for, then Miami makes more sense. As I said, if Lebron goes to NY, it's for the stage, and in my humble opinion, that stage is unnecessary for him.

By the way, I should point out that Lebron James is my favorite non-Net player. So my comparison to Kerry Rhodes was merely in terms of the Hollywood attitude IF he were to go to NY, and I stand by that.

[Cakes]

and in NY he will be famous!!
Yes, because he isn't famous already.

[MikeSLTJ23]

Lebron has to go to the Knicks or bulls now that they got boozer. I do not see him going to Miami cause he wouldnt be a super star. So either NY or chicago and in NY he will be famous!! We will have to wait and see.

If you're picking between Chicago and New York (and if these were the only choices), it's obviously New York. Boozer's overrated and is always injured. Stoudemire's a much better player. In my opinion, there's nothing in Chicago he can't get in New York (with time). I say with time because Chicago does have the Derrick Rose factor (which I do remember reading some rumor about Rose saying he didn't want Lebron? did I read that right?). Stoudemire > Boozer. New York > Chicago in every sense. And no MJ legacy to be compared to. And I'm just waiting for someone to tell me, "but the Bulls have Noah!!!!!" Anyone else hate watching him play as much as I do?

[MikeSLTJ23]

Yes, because he isn't famous already.

Lebron who? Isn't he in the Tour de France?

[jtrain]

Lebron with one other VERY GOOD player has a lot of appeal. You win with that, and it makes sense. But you can't tell me that combining 3 superstars doesn't lessen an appeal of a championship (at least for the NBA fan base if not for the champions). Yes, obviously they want to win, but when you have 3 super stars and EVERYONE goes into the season saying they can't lose, well, where's the appeal? It's bad for basketball. Hell, I thought it was bad for basketball when the Celtics got Pierce, Garnett, and Allen all on one team. And that trio isn't even in the same league as what we're talking about!

My main argument is that the team with the best record in the regular season should be without question able to win the championship. Them blowing it in the playoffs probably says more about Lebron than anything. But they have the talent and people are just ignoring that. They just choke when it counts. Win one in the state you grew up in, a city that's failed for so long, and still has the talent despite what people are saying.


I agree with you and if I wasn't a Knick fan I would want him to stay in cleveland because of the same case you make.

So i'll assume you believe that the Yankees are bad for baseball
and the '07 Patriots were bad for football

How about the 2010 NY JETS?

But when it comes down to it. Look at the championship teams of the past.

Lakers had Magic, Kareem, Worthy
Bulls had Jordan, Pippen, Rodman (although rodman came in late)
Spurs had Duncan, Robinson
Lakers had Kobe, SHAQ
Lakers had Kobe Gasol Artest


LeBron just needs a little support the same way Jordan, Kobe, and Duncan, Magic. Should I say that Magic is less glorified because he had Kareem and Worthy?

But you bring up excellent points and completely understand the points you are trying to make.

[ToonWalker]

Lebron has to go to the Knicks or bulls now that they got boozer. I do not see him going to Miami cause he wouldnt be a super star. So either NY or chicago and in NY he will be famous!! We will have to wait and see.
This post reminds me of this:

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Me like budderflys!

[jtrain]

Multiple sources told me the Warriors have an offer on the table that sends forward Anthony Randolph and other pieces to New York in a sign-and-trade deal for Lee.

If LeBron announces he is going to New York, in order to make room for his max contract, the Knicks would have to renounce Lee to free up the cap space. That would end the sign-and-trade possibility and the Warriors’ chances at Lee. But if LeBron doesn’t say the Knicks when he announces his decision …


… Then the Warriors are “in the game” for Lee. One source said the Knicks have at least three sign-and-trade offers on the table in case LeBron opts to play elsewhere. But the Warriors like their chances, considering Randolph is a hot commodity. I have not confirmed who the other players are, but the obvious candidates are center Ronny Turiaf, swingman Kelenna Azubuike and forward Brandon Wright.

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Get Lee out of the East!! but is this a wise move for the knicks?

[MikeSLTJ23]

I agree with you and if I wasn't a Knick fan I would want him to stay in cleveland because of the same case you make.

So i'll assume you believe that the Yankees are bad for baseball
and the '07 Patriots were bad for football

How about the 2010 NY JETS?

But when it comes down to it. Look at the championship teams of the past.

Lakers had Magic, Kareem, Worthy
Bulls had Jordan, Pippen, Rodman (although rodman came in late)
Spurs had Duncan, Robinson
Lakers had Kobe, SHAQ
Lakers had Kobe Gasol Artest


LeBron just needs a little support the same way Jordan, Kobe, and Duncan, Magic. Should I say that Magic is less glorified because he had Kareem and Worthy?

But you bring up excellent points and completely understand the points you are trying to make.

I guess you're right. I actually don't think the Yankees are bad for baseball (nor the Sox or the Mets). I don't like that there's no salary cap to be honest, but it is what it is. The reason I don't think they're bad for baseball is mostly because they're not winning every year. Money just doesn't seem to buy championships in baseball. For being the most stat-based, analytical sport out there, it seems crazy, but it is the case. If the Yankees won the World Series every year, damn straight I'd think it's bad for baseball (at least until someone beat up on the Evil Empire). The Mets are living proof of how you can spend a ton of money on guys that are just going to bring you heartache year in and year out (they just missed a decimal place with Oliver Perez I'm still convinced).

As for the Patriots, same thing. They had a fantastic season. As much as I hate them, you have to admit it was kind of cool seeing a team that was able to dominate that way ALMOST within the confines of the rules haha. They also had a mini-dynasty, but it was just that, a mini-dynasty. And it wasn't a superstar riddled team outside of Brady and Moss (who they got dirt cheap). It was all about the team chemistry. In basketball, you have 5 guys on the floor at the same time. When THREE are super stars, it's hard to care as much in my opinion.

Maybe I think a little too highly of Jamison and Mo Williams. I think if anything they just need better "filler pieces" than the rest of the crap they have. C'mon, Delonte West? I hope he slept with Lebron's mom as was reported. Anderson Varejao? He's horrendous. Is going to the Knicks with Amar'e, and say, Carmelo, better than Jamison and Williams? Absolutely. But there's nothing definite there, and there's nothing to say that the Cavs can't do the same thing and even get creative with it with some sign and trades as well to help him out.

[JetBlue]

I disagree. I don't understand the appeal of the New York market when he's already well beyond the New York market. He's a global icon already. He has nothing left to accomplish in that sector. Lebron's big stage is wherever he is. Him going to NY? He's already bigger than MSG. If the Knicks get him, congratulations. I understand their appeal when it comes to their current and potential players, but then again, if that's what he was going for, then Miami makes more sense. As I said, if Lebron goes to NY, it's for the stage, and in my humble opinion, that stage is unnecessary for him.

By the way, I should point out that Lebron James is my favorite non-Net player. So my comparison to Kerry Rhodes was merely in terms of the Hollywood attitude IF he were to go to NY, and I stand by that.

the stage only magnifies the player. Kobe Bryant wouldn't be nearly as popular as he is if he played on the Clippers or the Bucks. but being the best player in the league in one of the biggest markets on one of the most historical franchises is a much grander story than simply being the best player in the league. I'm dumbfounded that you are actually attempting to dispute that such a dynamic exists.

[jtrain]

According to Wiretap: NOH are seriously considering/open to trading CP3, and NY KNICKS is one of his chosen destinations. So how do we get in on this? How can we use our cap space to make this happen?

[Drew]

Myles Mills of the Knicks Blog confirms via multiple sources that LeBron James, Amare Stoudemire, and Allan Houston are having dinner together at Spark's Steakhouse in Manhattan.

[624]

I agree with you and if I wasn't a Knick fan I would want him to stay in cleveland because of the same case you make.

So i'll assume you believe that the Yankees are bad for baseball
and the '07 Patriots were bad for football

How about the 2010 NY JETS?

But when it comes down to it. Look at the championship teams of the past.

Lakers had Magic, Kareem, Worthy
Bulls had Jordan, Pippen, Rodman (although rodman came in late)
Spurs had Duncan, Robinson
Lakers had Kobe, SHAQ
Lakers had Kobe Gasol Artest


LeBron just needs a little support the same way Jordan, Kobe, and Duncan, Magic. Should I say that Magic is less glorified because he had Kareem and Worthy?

But you bring up excellent points and completely understand the points you are trying to make.

You can't compare football and baseball to having 3 superstars.

In basketball one player can win yuo a game, that is the only team sport where you can say that.

In baseball a great pitcher can only pith once every few games and you can pitch around a great hitter. In football all assets of the team ahve to be working for a player to make plays. There can be game changers but not game winners, in basketball it is just different.

what I'm trying to say is that having just "one" great player is more significant in basketball than any other sport.

[MikeSLTJ23]

the stage only magnifies the player. Kobe Bryant wouldn't be nearly as popular as he is if he played on the Clippers or the Bucks. but being the best player in the league in one of the biggest markets on one of the most historical franchises is a much grander story than simply being the best player in the league. I'm dumbfounded that you are actually attempting to dispute that such a dynamic exists.

Then continue to be dumbfounded. The dynamic exists within certain confines. Lebron's outside of those confines. Ask a kid in China if he knows who Lebron James is, he'll know. I don't get how you can say that playing in New York will really enhance what James has already created. He was already bigger in New York than any current player there, and he was playing in Cleveland! I don't get what makes you think, or anyone else for that matter, that playing in New York would really help Lebron make a bigger name for himself or enhance anything. Not even to be mean, but when's the last time the Knicks were even relevant to begin with? Lebron coming to New York certainly resurrects the Knicks, but does nothing for him when it comes to popularity or fame. New Yorkers know who he is! He's everywhere already! But if his goal were to resurrect the Knicks and its fan base, don't you think he'd prefer to do that in Cleveland?

[Poeman]

Myles Mills of the Knicks Blog confirms via multiple sources that LeBron James, Amare Stoudemire, and Allan Houston are having dinner together at Spark's Steakhouse in Manhattan.

link?........

[MikeSLTJ23]

Myles Mills of the Knicks Blog confirms via multiple sources that LeBron James, Amare Stoudemire, and Allan Houston are having dinner together at Spark's Steakhouse in Manhattan.

Shouldn't someone walk by them singing "One of these things is not like the other" to Houston?

[Green Lantern]

I don't understand the appeal of the New York market when he's already well beyond the New York market.

No one really understands it, or can even explain it. Yet, think about every song/movie/tv show/novel/poem/painting/etc. that artists have paid homage/wrote love letters to it.
Compare it with the books/shows/etc. about NJ/Cleveland/Miami/even LA or rest of the U.S.
There's no place like NY and everyone in the world knows this, has known this since the Dutch bought it. People gravitate towards it and it's beyond marketing or hype or even logic.

[Cakes]

Myles Mills of the Knicks Blog confirms via multiple sources that LeBron James, Amare Stoudemire, and Allan Houston are having dinner together at Spark's Steakhouse in Manhattan.

If James wants his TV special to be truly special, then he's a moron if he's out anywhere in public tonight with a current NBA player.

[ToonWalker]

Pretty soon LeBron is going to be spotted in a tortilla.

[JetBlue]

Then continue to be dumbfounded. The dynamic exists within certain confines. Lebron's outside of those confines. Ask a kid in China if he knows who Lebron James is, he'll know. I don't get how you can say that playing in New York will really enhance what James has already created. He was already bigger in New York than any current player there, and he was playing in Cleveland! I don't get what makes you think, or anyone else for that matter, that playing in New York would really help Lebron make a bigger name for himself or enhance anything. Not even to be mean, but when's the last time the Knicks were even relevant to begin with? Lebron coming to New York certainly resurrects the Knicks, but does nothing for him when it comes to popularity or fame. New Yorkers know who he is! He's everywhere already! But if his goal were to resurrect the Knicks and its fan base, don't you think he'd prefer to do that in Cleveland?
they haven't been winning, but they have been relevant -- no other losing team gets as much press. in case you haven't noticed, nobody is talking about the Clippers this week who also had an interview with him. why? irrelevant and losers. and you fail to grasp the basic premise that it isn't that NY makes him bigger in and of itself, it is that succeeding in NY is bigger than winning anywhere else.

[MikeSLTJ23]

they haven't been winning, but they have been relevant -- no other losing team gets as much press. in case you haven't noticed, nobody is talking about the Clippers this week who also had an interview with him. why? irrelevant and losers. and you fail to grasp the basic premise that it isn't that NY makes him bigger in and of itself, it is that succeeding in NY is bigger than winning anywhere else.

because NY has more fans? i understand that, but i don't think that means it's bigger. leave the tri-state area and no one cares when new york wins. and the knicks' press only started with this lebron sweepstakes thing and the signing of amare. other than that, they've been as irrelevant as the clippers. the clippers probably get more press for being terrible!

[DOOM]

Pretty soon LeBron is going to be spotted in a tortilla.

:beer: (filler)

[Vorrecht]

It's going to come down to Cleveland and New York.

[MikeSLTJ23]

It's going to come down to Cleveland and New York.

The decision's made. It's not really coming down to anything at this point and we're all just throwing out baseless speculation. I hope he chooses the Browns.

[desert swordz]

It would be amazing to learn whether Houston had any part in bringing LeBron to NY. I only saw Ewing in his twilight years. Houston is my favorite all-time Knick. HOUSTONNN

[624]

Ray Allen 2 year extension with Celtics

[desert swordz]

Fucking LeBron James' attention whoring ass. I can't wait till this shit is over.

I'm not sure how much cap space the Bulls had to begin with but if Boozer's first year is only for 13 mil they may have rom left to sign LeBron to his max. I think it comes down to Chicago and NY at this point. Best thing for the Nets to do now is to not spend the cap space they have now stupidly and sit back, draft, and look at the free agents of next year and the year after (assuming they don't get LeBron this year)

[IATA]

If I'm Lebron, I'm in love with Chicago right now. Get my max, have 3 great pieces in Boozer, Noah and Rose, close proximity to my home, home of my idol...

If he says no, he must have a damned good plan.

[JetBlue]

because NY has more fans? i understand that, but i don't think that means it's bigger. leave the tri-state area and no one cares when new york wins. and the knicks' press only started with this lebron sweepstakes thing and the signing of amare. other than that, they've been as irrelevant as the clippers. the clippers probably get more press for being terrible!
it has to do with the fact that New York is known worldwide. the idea that New York doesn't have value or greater interest and marketability is just laughable. yes, all things are even.

but fine, everybody is simply making it up when they talk about the value of the market, and you're brilliant because you see it otherwise.

utterly ridiculous.

[Doogstein]

Per ESPN Bottom Line

Ray Allen has agreed to 2yr/ $20M contract to stay with Celtics

[624]

The cap was released and it is 58 million, 2 million higher than expected. So this means the Nets can sign 2 max players now without moving Humps?


...now they can max out Tyrus Thomas AND Mike Miller. fml

[ToonWalker]

Funny stuff:

LeBron James is a Cocksucker (To view links in this forum your post count must be 10 or greater. Your post count is 0 momentarily.)

[MParty7441]

If anyone actually thinks Lebron is coming to the Knicks I suggest you buy the stock MSG. It will take off on Friday if he commits to NY tomorrow night.

[Antoni]

Lakers had Magic, Kareem, Worthy
Bulls had Jordan, Pippen, Rodman (although rodman came in late)
Spurs had Duncan, Robinson
Lakers had Kobe, SHAQ
Lakers had Kobe Gasol Artest


LeBron just needs a little support the same way Jordan, Kobe, and Duncan, Magic. Should I say that Magic is less glorified because he had Kareem and Worthy?


No because his opponents had Dr. J/Moses Malone, Larry Bird/Kevin McHale/Dennis Johnson/Bill Walton/Robert Parish, Isaiah Thomas/Joe Dumars/Bill Laimbeer, and of course Jordan/Pippen/Grant.

With Cap he went 2-1 vs the 76ers, 2-1 vs Boston, and 1-1 vs the Bad Boy Pistons. He didn't have Worthy for the first 2 and he didn't have Kareem for the loss vs the Bulls. The squad Magic had was an all-time great team no doubt, but so were his opponents.

[bhav2k1]

Ric Bucher apparently posted on Twitter that LeBron James was flying to Miami on Wednesday night to meet with Heat president Pat Riley.

The post is no longer showing and we're wondering if ESPN shut it down due to the 'big show' on Thursday night. If James is currently in Miami, it's big news and would give them the edge in landing him. But based on the fact the information is no longer available, it's anyone's guess as to where LeBron is right now. We've also heard he's playing softball in Ohio tonight, which might make just as much sense as him flying to Miami. Any way you slice it, ESPN's reporters are likely going to be kept on a very short leash on Wednesday, so as not to spoil the surprise coming our way at 9:10 p.m.

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[Cakes]

GreenHornet said James is going to Portland.


You: My friend, Green Hornet we'll call him, had brain cancer. The treatment went great and he's all cured now...
Stranger: then whats the problem
You: but now he's a super genius. Somehow he is much smarter now then he ever was. I think maybe he was abducted by aliens...
Stranger: thats a good guess
Stranger: maybe he was..
Stranger: maybe they actually cured the cancer and not the aliens
You: Anyway, he can see into the future now. He knew the Saints would win the Super Bowl by January 4, 2010.
Stranger: is he from louisiana
You: Tonight he told me the Portland TrailBlazers will acquire LeBron James via a sign-and-trade with the Cavaliers. LaMarcus Aldrige and Cock Oden will go to Cleveland.
You: No, he is from New York. He likes the Jets and fishing. Caught some minnows one time.
Stranger: that is exciting
Stranger: i think i want to meet your friend
Stranger: he seems so cool

[624]

Funny stuff:

LeBron James is a Cocksucker (To view links in this forum your post count must be 10 or greater. Your post count is 0 momentarily.)

That is the best article on James I've read this offseason.

[Cakes]

That is the best article on James I've read this offseason.That is the only article on James that I've read this offseason.

I was trying to find a good line to quote and call my favorite, but I couldn't do that. My favorite part is like half the article.

. . .Wilbon asked to blow him JUST A LITTLE BIT. Not much. Just a little bit.

LeBron is now the guy you openly root against. If he leaves Cleveland tomorrow night, he'll have needlessly strung along an entire fanbase and given them the middle finger by making their breakup spectacularly public. If he stays, he'll have spent two years cockteasing the rest of the world about going somewhere else when he probably never wanted to leave Ohio to begin with. There's no end result tonight that makes LeBron a sympathetic figure. He's already gone past the point of no return. He's a cocksucker. He's a guy that cares more about the end result of playing basketball – massive, unending adulation – than he does actual basketball.

I don't begrudge him that attitude. I'd be the same way if I were a basketball player. All I'd give a shit about would be what I make and where I'm drinking tonight. And I don't begrudge him the right to play somewhere other than Cleveland. It's Cleveland. It blows. There's nothing to do in that town except masturbate and cry. But there's a normal way of doing things, and there's the dick way of doing things, and making your own free agency a two-year drama capped off with a variety show directed by Senor Spielbergo falls squarely in the purview of FLAMING FUCKING DICK MOVES. . .

[EcKo151]

Bron in Miami? Broussard tweeted earlier tonight he was playing softball in Akron.

I'm done. Goodnight!

[EcKo151]

Multiple sources are telling Newsday that LeBron James has decided to join Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh in Miami. The new Big Three is here.

F this. Alan Hahn's twitter

[624]

Instead of announcing which 1 team he is signing with, he should announce the 29 teams that will hate him forever because of this whole fiasco.

[ace_o_spades]

It was a breaking news update on sportscenter that he was headed down to miami for a late night meeting with Pat Riley.

[Cakes]

Mike Francesser on the James dog and pony show-
To view links in this forum your post count must be 10 or greater. Your post count is 0 momentarily.

[Antoni]

That is the only article on James that I've read this offseason.

I was trying to find a good line to quote and call my favorite, but I couldn't do that. My favorite part is like half the article.

My favorite is the SVG one. I love the Van Gundys for their honesty and when Phil is done, I hope we hire one of them.

It shouldn’t come as a surprise that Stan Van Gundy will not watch tomorrow night’s LeBron James announcement special. James will declare his intentions for next season in a one-hour special on ESPN that will air at 9 p.m.

As Van Gundy put it a few minutes ago , “It takes 15 seconds to say, ‘I’ve decided to stay in Cleveland,’ but we’ve got another 59 minutes and 45 seconds to, what? Promote LeBron James? As if we don’t do that enough.”

Choosing one quote over another from the 7 minutes we spoke to Van Gundy about this before AirTran Airways Pro Summer League tipped off is completely impossible, so I’ve posted a nearly full transcript of Van Gundy’s thoughts on free agency.

Some highlights:

1. He thinks the whole spectacle is ridiculous and said the big three did a nice job putting on a charade.

2. He likened Chris Bosh and Dwyane Wade together to Kobe Bryant and Pau Gasol and also said he wasn’t surprised Bosh went to Miami because he’d been following Wade around “for two weeks like a lapdog.”

3. He seemed to have great admiration for the way Kobe Bryant and Kevin Durant handled their recent contract extensions. “You don’t hear Kobe Bryant and certainly not Kevin Durant talking about their brand … they’re simply basketball players who want to be great players and win games.”

4. He hopes Pat Riley doesn’t return to coach the Heat (thus unseating Erik Spoelstra).

Here we go with the transcript. In a normal Q&A we’d have Qs and As, but a lot of our conversation was myself and the two other reporters with me just informing/reminding Van Gundy of things that happened and letting him react. So we’ve got R’s and SVG’s. Reporters and Stan Van Gundys.

R. Your thoughts on all this free agency stuff?

SVG: It’s gotten ridiculous I think. It’s really I mean it’s almost like a parody of itself this whole situation now. Come on, an hour long? It takes 15 seconds to say I’ve decided to stay in Cleveland but we’ve got another 59 minutes and 45 seconds to, what? Promote LeBron James? As if we don’t do that enough. Look, the guy’s a great player and wherever he goes, my bet would be Cleveland, that place will be excited. But an hour long special?

R. Sign of the times, I guess.

SVG: It is a sign of the times. Unfortunately. It’s amazing that a guy as good as Kobe Bryant simply extended his contract with no real fanfare or anything else.

R. Kevin Durant did, too.

SVG: Yeah and Kevin Durant is more in the Kobe Bryant mode. You don’t hear Kobe Bryant and certainly not Kevin Durant talking about their brand. They don’t. I hear that from the other guys. I don’t hear those guys talking about their brand, they’re simply basketball players who want to be great players and win games. Not that those other guys aren’t great players and don’t want to win games. They do, but there’s also more to it. It’s not what I like. Other people, I guess, like it. I’m sure it will be a widely watched show tomorrow. It simply will not have me as a member of that audience.

R. Bosh and Wade had their announcement on ESPN. Said he’s joining Wade.

SVG: Well, he’s been following him around for two weeks like his lapdog. So that doesn’t really surprise me.

R. What does that do to the balance of power in the East?

SVG: Certainly they’re, they were good anyway. They’re a team that was, the last two years was a number 5 seed and now they just added one of the best forwards in basketball. As far as a straight one-two punch that compares pretty favorably to Kobe and Pau Gasol. It’s right there. I think they’re instant contenders. I don’t think there’s any doubt. They’re instant contenders to win an NBA championship. It makes them very, very good. It’s not like they’re done. They’ve got a lot of money to put pieces around them. … I don’t care, right now, I can tell you they’ll get good enough pieces that they’re instant contenders.

R: Do you think Pat [Riley] will come back to coach?

SVG: I hope not. But I don’t have any knowledge.

R: As a coach, do you automatically start thinking about how this affects your team?

SVG: I think right off the bat you know there’s another significant contender in the East so that there’s no question it makes things tougher and you’re gonna have to be better. I don’t think there’s any doubt about that. You’re always sort of in the mode of, ‘What do we need to do to get better?’ It doesn’t really change, just adds another very significant competitor.

…I think a lot of people now will look at them as the team to beat in the East. You’re talking two of the top seven or eight offensive players in the NBA on the same team. I don’t think there’s any susprise. I think it’s what pretty much all of us thought would happen all along. I think these guys did a masterful job of creating suspense and carrying out a great charade. I don’t think there was any doubt. Stoudemire, I’m not sure anybody knew. But LeBron back to Cleveland, Wade and Bosh in Miami, is pretty much what everybody thought.

R: Joe Johnson back to Atlanta.

SVG: Joe Johnson back in Atlanta. There’s no big surprise.

R: Talking about LeBron, are you thinking he wouldn’t be on TV if he was going to leave?

SVG: That doesn’t have anything to do with it. I’ve always thought he’s going back to Cleveland. I just think this free agent thing has been a masterful publicity opportunity for all of them. They’ve done a great job of creating more interest in this brand. If Wade just comes right out and says I’m going back to Miami, he can’t get a film crew to follow him around to do that. Bosh had to make it look like he considered all these teams. And had to make it look like they were really considering those other teams so there would be some suspense and some interest. I think they did a great job of doing hat but in the end I don’t think they surprised anybody.

R: Think he could go to Miami?

SVG: If he went anywhere but Cleveland I’d be shocked, but I’d be doubly shocked if he went to Miami. [Wade and James] both want to be the man. I think Chris Bosh was a different story. I think he had tried to be the man. It didn’t work. I think he’s willing to be a very, very good second fiddle. I think he’s seen what happened to Pau Gasol. Teams that are good but couldn’t win the playoffs to being the second guy in L.A. and it’s worked well for him. I’m sure Chris Bosh envisions something pretty much the same. All those guys would love to be the man but it’s not that easy as a lot of them have found. I think it’s great for the Heat and good for him.

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vBookie proposal: Durant will win more rings than the King with No Ring. I'm all in with my 25 vcash.

[Cakes]

vBookie proposal: Durant will win more rings than the King with No Ring. I'm all in with my 25 vcash.
Durant is my favorite NBA star. Brandon Roy is #2 on my list. This is not just based on their play. Neither are douchebags. I made a post four or so months ago wherein I wrote Durant and OC will win an NBA title within three years. So I'm with you on that and I'm all in with my 36, count 'em, 36 vBucks.

I now even like Kobe Bryant more than James, especially since a couple of you guys informed me that Bryant did not force a trade from Charlotte. Again, I was a huge NBA fan at that time and the idea I had at the time was that he forced a trade just like Steve Francis and Eli Manning would later do. I actually liked the Lakers before Bryant got there. Don't get me wrong, they weren't a favorite team of mine, but I did like them.

[desert swordz]

As Myles A Mills put it, if LeBron goes to the Heat and makes a Big 3 there he's a baby back bitchhhhhhhh.

[Cakes]

As Myles A Mills put it, if LeBron goes to the Heat and makes a Big 3 there he's a baby back bitchhhhhhhh.

The funny thing about that is how people said James won't go to Chicago because he can't match Jordan's success there. Well, if James goes to Miami, he'll never match Wade's success because Wade won a title there already. Wade'll always be one up on James in that city unless Wade gets injured and retires early and then James wins a ring sans Wade.

[kinghenry89]

If Lebron goes to Miami, he's A-Rod. He's A-Rod and Wade is Jeter--everyone will hate James for abandoning the Cavs, and even if he has success it will always be Wade's team. It won't matter that he's the best player.

In any case, Bucher retracted the story that James is in Miami. (twitter.com/ricbucher)

Never tweeted LeBron was in Mia. A source said he was. Passed it on to the mothership. Made a 2nd call, told he was in Akron. Killed report. 23 minutes ago via web

[Doogstein]

If Lebron goes to Miami, he's A-Rod. He's A-Rod and Wade is Jeter--everyone will hate James for abandoning the Cavs, and even if he has success it will always be Wade's team. It won't matter that he's the best player.

In any case, Bucher retracted the story that James is in Miami. (twitter.com/ricbucher)

That's just him covering his ass so he doesn't get fucked for blowing the big news I bet.

[mj2sexay]

If you're picking between Chicago and New York (and if these were the only choices), it's obviously New York. Boozer's overrated and is always injured. Stoudemire's a much better player. In my opinion, there's nothing in Chicago he can't get in New York (with time). I say with time because Chicago does have the Derrick Rose factor (which I do remember reading some rumor about Rose saying he didn't want Lebron? did I read that right?). Stoudemire > Boozer. New York > Chicago in every sense. And no MJ legacy to be compared to. And I'm just waiting for someone to tell me, "but the Bulls have Noah!!!!!" Anyone else hate watching him play as much as I do?

Lol the longer this thread goes the dumber you sound.

[Poeman]

ESPN reporting breaking news...chris broutard is saying all indications are lebron will sign with the Miami Heat

[Poeman]

also newsday recieved reports from multiple sources that Lebron is going to heat...

If this is the case then all of us should hold hands and sing cumbaya...because its going to suck in the NBA

[Jetfanmack]

Exactly. Sets up Heat vs Lakers finals until Kobe retires, and it makes non-Lakers and non-Heat fans root for every other team.

[Vorrecht]

ESPN reporting breaking news...chris broutard is saying all indications are lebron will sign with the Miami Heat

If Broussard is right about this, that would be a first.

[JetBlue]

if LeBron goes to the heat, I think it diminishes his legacy on several fronts. one, it is an admittance that he isn't good enough to lead a team on his own to a championship. now, granted, no player has ever led his team by himself and has at least one other great player, but the best player isn't the one who abandons his ship and jumps on another player's bandwagon. LeBron becomes less Michael Jordan and more Clyde Drexler.

secondly, the great players are the ones that are perceived to have led their teams to the championships. Jordan, Kobe, Wade, Magic, Hakeem. those guys led their teams to the title, not simply won them. by joining the Heat, even if they win a title or two, it is going to be hard to create the perception that he led them to the titles, but was merely a contributing factor in it.

take the Celtics, you have the big three who finally won a title together, but does anyone mention Pierce, Allen or KG as the same type of players that led their teams to the championship? of course not, and they will never be spoken as such. by winning with this team, LeBron inherently places his championships amongst that second tier of champions rather than elevates his accomplishment of winning.

[JohnnyThaJet]

if LeBron goes to the heat, I think it diminishes his legacy on several fronts. one, it is an admittance that he isn't good enough to lead a team on his own to a championship. now, granted, no player has ever led his team by himself and has at least one other great player, but the best player isn't the one who abandons his ship and jumps on another player's bandwagon. LeBron becomes less Michael Jordan and more Clyde Drexler.

secondly, the great players are the ones that are perceived to have led their teams to the championships. Jordan, Kobe, Wade, Magic, Hakeem. those guys led their teams to the title, not simply won them. by joining the Heat, even if they win a title or two, it is going to be hard to create the perception that he led them to the titles, but was merely a contributing factor in it.

take the Celtics, you have the big three who finally won a title together, but does anyone mention Pierce, Allen or KG as the same type of players that led their teams to the championship? of course not, and they will never be spoken as such. by winning with this team, LeBron inherently places his championships amongst that second tier of champions rather than elevates his accomplishment of winning.


Hopefully if that is the case he joins that Nets and proves is stardom by taking a team that went 12-70 to a top seed playoff team. I think we can all agree that that sort of achievement especially if we won the title would make LeBron a stand out. And his ego would very much enjoy that.

[ScotsJet]

I'm really getting in to the NBA this past month or two. Casually followed Cleveland's scores for a few seasons to see how LeBron was doing, but never been in to it. Need to pick a team, but since I've been following LeBron so far, I'll probably go with whatever team he joins. Hoping it's NY or NJ though, would be a more natural fit given every team I support in any sport has been losing forever.

[J.E.T. Tone Holmes]

lebron is damned if he does, damned if he doesnt

he gave cleveland 7 years to build a squad around him. if they did they job that the thunder have done, he would have re-uped for the max at his last extension like durant did

kobe did the same shit lebron is doing now like 5 years ago, but nobody seems to remember that. he flirted with clippers and chicago, and after he did re-sign, he trashed his lakers teammates and the front office. if they dont pull of a miraculous trade for pau, he's probably still bitching

lebron wants to take his career into his own hands, the only way he could do that was to be a free agent. once he became a free agent, the circus came out, but i dont see how that is his fault

he took one week to make the biggest decision of his life, and he's an egomaniac? i took more time dwelling on my offers out of college

[Cakes]

Exactly. Sets up Heat vs Lakers finals until Kobe retires, and it makes non-Lakers and non-Heat fans root for every other team.
Bryant will not be in the Finals every year. Maybe he will get back in 2011, but the Thunder and Blazers are going to have good shots to get there, too. The Kings might even become really good again in a couple years if DeMarcus Cousins pans out. I have no idea what their cap situation is like, but with Evans, Cousins, and Dalembert there, they could become an attractive team for a top free agent next year. A good shooting guard or small forward would fit in nicely.

The Heat would be extremely top heavy. Good veteran role players would have to sign for peanuts, relatively speaking, to join that team.

[Cakes]

lebron wants to take his career into his own hands, the only way he could do that was to be a free agent. once he became a free agent, the circus came out, but i dont see how that is his fault

Wasn't James the mastermind behind tonight's dog and pony show on ESPN?

[MikeSLTJ23]

it has to do with the fact that New York is known worldwide. the idea that New York doesn't have value or greater interest and marketability is just laughable. yes, all things are even.

but fine, everybody is simply making it up when they talk about the value of the market, and you're brilliant because you see it otherwise.

utterly ridiculous.

I love how every argument you make is restating exactly what you said the last time, followed by terms like laughable and utterly ridiculous. Will you stop taking everything I say about New York as a personal attack?? Everyone knows Lebron. How many times do I have to say that? He doesn't need New York is all I'm saying. No one cares if everyone knows New York when they already know Lebron. Simple as that. If you're already the most popular player, New York's not really going to do anything to advance that. But I'm done with arguing with you and replying to your same crap every single time. I'm glad I personally insulted you somehow by talking about how New York adds nothing, or it's just setting in for you that I might be right, that he has no reason to go to NY. Either way, I'm glad I've struck a chord with you since you've called me and every post I've made numerous things throughout for no reason at all besides being immature and having nothing to add to the conversation. Nothing too bad, but insulting nonetheless.

[MikeSLTJ23]

Lol the longer this thread goes the dumber you sound.

LOLOLOLOL why? What in my post did you disagree with? NY is a better place to go than Chicago and Noah sucks. I don't get what you're trying to say.

[MikeSLTJ23]

if LeBron goes to the heat, I think it diminishes his legacy on several fronts. one, it is an admittance that he isn't good enough to lead a team on his own to a championship. now, granted, no player has ever led his team by himself and has at least one other great player, but the best player isn't the one who abandons his ship and jumps on another player's bandwagon. LeBron becomes less Michael Jordan and more Clyde Drexler.

secondly, the great players are the ones that are perceived to have led their teams to the championships. Jordan, Kobe, Wade, Magic, Hakeem. those guys led their teams to the title, not simply won them. by joining the Heat, even if they win a title or two, it is going to be hard to create the perception that he led them to the titles, but was merely a contributing factor in it.

take the Celtics, you have the big three who finally won a title together, but does anyone mention Pierce, Allen or KG as the same type of players that led their teams to the championship? of course not, and they will never be spoken as such. by winning with this team, LeBron inherently places his championships amongst that second tier of champions rather than elevates his accomplishment of winning.

Apparently as long as it's not NY related, you and I agree.

[Barry the Baptist]

]if LeBron goes to the heat, I think it diminishes his legacy on several fronts. one, it is an admittance that he isn't good enough to lead a team on his own to a championship. now, granted, no player has ever led his team by himself and has at least one other great player, but the best player isn't the one who abandons his ship and jumps on another player's bandwagon. LeBron becomes less Michael Jordan and more Clyde Drexler.

secondly, the great players are the ones that are perceived to have led their teams to the championships. Jordan, Kobe, Wade, Magic, Hakeem. those guys led their teams to the title, not simply won them. by joining the Heat, even if they win a title or two, it is going to be hard to create the perception that he led them to the titles, but was merely a contributing factor in it.

take the Celtics, you have the big three who finally won a title together, but does anyone mention Pierce, Allen or KG as the same type of players that led their teams to the championship? of course not, and they will never be spoken as such. by winning with this team, LeBron inherently places his championships amongst that second tier of champions rather than elevates his accomplishment of winning.

That's essentially it, apparently his quote was "I'm afraid to sign a 6 year deal with Cleveland and end up at 31 with no titles and bad knees" That right there sums up LeBron if true. Can we please stop calling this guy King because nobody who would ever call themselves King would do what he is going to do or make that comment. Essentially what he says is that I'm not good enough to try and build a team around , the Cavs have tried to bring in guys like Mo Williams, Shaq and Jamison and he couldn't get it done. Granted he may win a few titles but your right Wade won one before LeBron got there so it will always be his team. That being said Cleveland fans shouldn't hate James for his decision but rather direct it at Bosh because if he agreed to come to Cleveland there is little doubt Lebron would have stayed.

As a Net fan I assumed he wouldn't be coming here but I was rooting for him to stay in Cleveland and certainly would have rather seen him go to the Knicks (who are now going to be huge losers yet again) then Miami or Chicago. I think it hurts the NBA more then helps, the regular season will now be more boring then it was before and sure you'll have the bandwagon fans who want to see how good the Heat can be but I think it will lead more people to believe it's fixed the way these 3 colluted and acted to all end up in Miami (which is a terrible sports town on top of it). I've never been a Laker fan but I'll always root for them before I root for these guys.

[jetzIII]

Who gives a shit.. I can't believe ESPN is going to have an hour event on this when it only takes 5 seconds to answer.
He is going to make millions for playing b-ball and there still people that can't find a job..

[Green Hurricane]

As far as the reports he's headed to the Heat, does anyone actually think that after ALL this time, he's suddenly let slip anything about his decision? After 2 years of random speculation, NOW there are insiders that know exactly what he's doing? Even if he does go to the Heat, I don't buy these randoms reporters knowing anything whatsoever about it with true certainty.

[MikeSLTJ23]

As far as the reports he's headed to the Heat, does anyone actually think that after ALL this time, he's suddenly let slip anything about his decision? After 2 years of random speculation, NOW there are insiders that know exactly what he's doing? Even if he does go to the Heat, I don't buy these randoms reporters knowing anything whatsoever about it with true certainty.

No chance, unless his mom screwed it up for him. Honestly, I think he's created a media circus only to go back to Cleveland to drum up some interest in Cleveland. If not, then doing it like this is just mean to Cavs fans. Unless he's trying to soften the blow by doing it on primetime TV, but it would have the opposite effect. But like everyone else, everything is baseless speculation.

[17a_tailgater]

if he signs in miami,they would have to trade beasley.leaving a total of 4 players on the roster.plus there 2 second round picks.then they would have to sign 5 min level salaries to fill out the roster.

[Mambo9]

Who gives a shit.. I can't believe ESPN is going to have an hour event on this when it only takes 5 seconds to answer.
He is going to make millions for playing b-ball and there still people that can't find a job..

Theytookourjobs!

if he signs in miami,they would have to trade beasley.leaving a total of 4 players on the roster.plus there 2 second round picks.then they would have to sign 5 min level salaries to fill out the roster.

Wasn't there a possibility of a sign-and-trade with the Raptors for Bosh?

[Barry the Baptist]

if he signs in miami,they would have to trade beasley.leaving a total of 4 players on the roster.plus there 2 second round picks.then they would have to sign 5 min level salaries to fill out the roster.

They only have 1.8 million left if he signs with Miami who would trade Beasley leaving 4 signed players, Wade, Bosh, James and Mario Chalmers. Their draft picks were Dexter Pittman, Jarvis Varnado and De'Sean Butler. That gives them 7 players.

[EcKo151]

I wish I never made this thread if he decides to cop out and coat-tail Wade in Miami.

[MurrellMartin]

Sorry, there is a 0% chance he announces that he's going to Miami from CT. He'll be a Knick and we'll all be celebrating tonight. :up:

[desert swordz]

Looks like the Knicks will be pursuing that Lee trade as LeBron looks to be bolting to Miami like a bitch. It was rumoured that we were looking at Anthony Randolph. I'd love to have him in this system. He's a great young player.

[17a_tailgater]

They only have 1.8 million left if he signs with Miami who would trade Beasley leaving 4 signed players, Wade, Bosh, James and Mario Chalmers. Their draft picks were Dexter Pittman, Jarvis Varnado and De'Sean Butler. That gives them 7 players.

you need 12 on an nba roster

[Barry the Baptist]

you need 12 on an nba roster

I don't know where the other 5 are gonna come from with only 1.8 left in cap space.

[kbgreen]

Sorry, there is a 0% chance he announces that he's going to Miami from CT. He'll be a Knick and we'll all be celebrating tonight. :up:

Isn't he in the area for Melo's wedding? The location could have nothing to do with where he is signing.

[TommyGreen]

Apparently LeBron never went to Miami.

Per Ric Bucher:

@RicBucher: Never tweeted LeBron was in Mia. A source said he was. Passed it on to the mothership. Made a 2nd call, told he was in Akron. Killed report.

[J.E.T. Tone Holmes]

Wasn't James the mastermind behind tonight's dog and pony show on ESPN?

what people dont seem to realize is that it would have been a dog and pony show on espn no matter how he announced his decision. theyve been spending the first 15 minutes of every SC on him for the past week and have been trying to milk every dollar out of this story for three years

i was actually impressed that lebrons camp came up with an idea for charity to benefit from espn's rediculous coverage

[EcKo151]

Wade was leaning towards Chicago.
Yesterday it was LeBron/Knicks had a great chance

Now this Miami stuff? I'm just going to say his camp is just taking everyone for a ride and driving the hype further.

No idea what's going on.

[J.E.T. Tone Holmes]

That's essentially it, apparently his quote was "I'm afraid to sign a 6 year deal with Cleveland and end up at 31 with no titles and bad knees" That right there sums up LeBron if true. Can we please stop calling this guy King because nobody who would ever call themselves King would do what he is going to do or make that comment. Essentially what he says is that I'm not good enough to try and build a team around , the Cavs have tried to bring in guys like Mo Williams, Shaq and Jamison and he couldn't get it done. Granted he may win a few titles but your right Wade won one before LeBron got there so it will always be his team. That being said Cleveland fans shouldn't hate James for his decision but rather direct it at Bosh because if he agreed to come to Cleveland there is little doubt Lebron would have stayed.

As a Net fan I assumed he wouldn't be coming here but I was rooting for him to stay in Cleveland and certainly would have rather seen him go to the Knicks (who are now going to be huge losers yet again) then Miami or Chicago. I think it hurts the NBA more then helps, the regular season will now be more boring then it was before and sure you'll have the bandwagon fans who want to see how good the Heat can be but I think it will lead more people to believe it's fixed the way these 3 colluted and acted to all end up in Miami (which is a terrible sports town on top of it). I've never been a Laker fan but I'll always root for them before I root for these guys.

he gave them 7 years to build a team around him. the best that he got was mo williams, shaq's expiring contract, and jamison for half a season ... nobody in the league would win a title with that team, let alone have the best record in the league

[IATA]

Now that theres a good shot he won't goto NY, all the Knick fans are bashing him. How long before, "I didn't even want him" or "We are better off without him anyway"?

[Barry the Baptist]

he gave them 7 years to build a team around him. the best that he got was mo williams, shaq's expiring contract, and jamison for half a season ... nobody in the league would win a title with that team, let alone have the best record in the league

It's not like he was in the Western Conference though, I'd understand that but he is the best player in the Eastern Conference and it's debatable that this years Cleveland team was better then the Miami team that won the title yet they failed to make it to the Eastern Conference Finals. Granted it's not a dynamite team but I think a lot of free agents may have been afraid to come to Cleveland because they all knew this day would be coming and they may have been stuck there w/o LeBron. Had he comitted to Cleveland 2 years ago I think he may have had better luck bringing in another star player to go along with him.

[MBGreen]

Now that theres a good shot he won't goto NY, all the Knick fans are bashing him. How long before, "I didn't even want him" or "We are better off without him anyway"?
Ecko hasn't changed his avatar....so the hope still remains. :smile:

[17a_tailgater]

I don't know where the other 5 are gonna come from with only 1.8 left in cap space.

all 3 have to take less than max contracts.
miami can only afford 2 max.
3 x $14 mill = $42 mill
plus
chalmers =$ 847,000
4 players =$43 mill
$15 million for 8 players

[J.E.T. Tone Holmes]

It's not like he was in the Western Conference though, I'd understand that but he is the best player in the Eastern Conference and it's debatable that this years Cleveland team was better then the Miami team that won the title yet they failed to make it to the Eastern Conference Finals. Granted it's not a dynamite team but I think a lot of free agents may have been afraid to come to Cleveland because they all knew this day would be coming and they may have been stuck there w/o LeBron. Had he comitted to Cleveland 2 years ago I think he may have had better luck bringing in another star player to go along with him.

are you serious? that was shaqs last prime year, think about how dominant he was in his prime. and i still think the refs handed them that title. there were so many phantom fouls in that finals that i stopped watching, and i was rooting for the heat

free agents couldnt come to the cavs because they massacred their cap situation after the boozer incident. they could only get those kind of guys via trade and they didnt have the assets to pull of those types of deals

[EcKo151]

Yeah the Knicks are better off without the 2nd best player in the league and getting Mike Miller instead. Never wanted the guy.

Seriously IATA?

[IATA]

You took me seriously? Things must be dire.

[J.E.T. Tone Holmes]

all 3 have to take less than max contracts.
miami can only afford 2 max.
3 x $14 mill = $42 mill
plus
chalmers =$ 847,000
4 players =$43 mill
$15 million for 8 players

you can go over the cap if you sign players to minimum contracts. they also have beasley (might be gone) and three second round picks. so theyll end up with 7 or 8 players if bron agrees

[J.E.T. Tone Holmes]

Yeah the Knicks are better off without the 2nd best player in the league and getting Mike Miller instead. Never wanted the guy.

Seriously IATA?

with all due respect to kobe, lebron is the best player in the league

[EcKo151]

You took me seriously? Things must be dire.
Damn right they are. I'm nervous man. The buildup of this has been nuts.

Evan Roberts is still saying NYK. And not as sarcasm, but he doesn't buy this Heat stuff at all.

[IATA]

I don't think he's going Heat either.

Why would ESPN blow their own surprise? As soon as I saw the headline of him leaning to Miami on their front page, I knew Miami was out. Chicago/Cleveland/NYK.

Lebron is a vain motherfucker, and he's going to want to announce something that will blow away Wade and Bosh. I'm thinking that eliminates Cleveland.

[EcKo151]

Chrus Broussard JUST said mia is in the lead BUT cleveland knicks and chicago are still very much alive.

Think I'm going to shut the TV and phone off for a bit and walk around the mall in my Knicks jersey. What a DBag he is.

[Joe Willie White Shoes]

This whole spectacle is revolting. It is why I think pro hoops is horrible. It is the only sport where the name on the back of the jersey means everything and the name on the front nothing. There is something wrong with a sport where the entire balance of the league will be determined where one player signs a free agent contract. And to add to the madness, we need a one hour show to make that announcement? What has the NBA become? American Idol? I can't wait for this all to end. I love sports, but to turn on the radio to listen to sports talk and hear only three topics for the past month - James, baseball (the most boring over-talked sport in New York), and soccer - I can't wait for two to end and football camp to start.

[ToonWalker]

Evan Roberts is still saying NYK. And not as sarcasm, but he doesn't buy this Heat stuff at all.

On a similar note, my dry cleaner guy's retarded nephew is saying LeBron is going to the Expos. Take it for what it's worth.

[jonnyd]

This whole spectacle is revolting. It is why I think pro hoops is horrible. It is the only sport where the name on the back of the jersey means everything and the name on the front nothing. There is something wrong with a sport where the entire balance of the league will be determined where one player signs a free agent contract. And to add to the madness, we need a one hour show to make that announcement? What has the NBA become? American Idol? I can't wait for this all to end. I love sports, but to turn on the radio to listen to sports talk and hear only three topics for the past month - James, baseball (the most boring over-talked sport in New York), and soccer - I can't wait for two to end and football camp to start.

its because the sport is retarded and you only need 3 players to win a championship. Its garbage.

[mj2sexay]

LOLOLOLOL why? What in my post did you disagree with? NY is a better place to go than Chicago and Noah sucks. I don't get what you're trying to say.

Lol Noah sucks? He's a third year player that averaged a double double last year and is a defensive force. You're an idiot. Oh and thanks for the pick that got him to us.

No, you can't get a Derrick Rose "in-time."

For you to actually think the Knicks are more attractive then Chicago from a roster standpoint is all I need to know about your level of intelligence. Derrick Rose had one of the best sophomore seasons for a point guard of all-time and he wasn't even healthy the first month of the year. In the playoffs he's consistently showed up (he has 12 playoff games under his belt in two years in the league.) So take that shit elsewhere because unless you sign Chris Paul in 2011, you have no shot of getting a PG that can even wipe the sweat off of Rose's nutsack. And by 2012 people will unanimously agree Rose is the better player. Shithead.

[Italian Seafood]

if LeBron goes to the heat, I think it diminishes his legacy on several fronts. one, it is an admittance that he isn't good enough to lead a team on his own to a championship. now, granted, no player has ever led his team by himself and has at least one other great player, but the best player isn't the one who abandons his ship and jumps on another player's bandwagon. LeBron becomes less Michael Jordan and more Clyde Drexler.

secondly, the great players are the ones that are perceived to have led their teams to the championships. Jordan, Kobe, Wade, Magic, Hakeem. those guys led their teams to the title, not simply won them. by joining the Heat, even if they win a title or two, it is going to be hard to create the perception that he led them to the titles, but was merely a contributing factor in it.

take the Celtics, you have the big three who finally won a title together, but does anyone mention Pierce, Allen or KG as the same type of players that led their teams to the championship? of course not, and they will never be spoken as such. by winning with this team, LeBron inherently places his championships amongst that second tier of champions rather than elevates his accomplishment of winning.

I agree. We've gotten to an age where guys chase rings for themselves instread of striving to deliver one to their franchise and the fans, the way it used to be. As a Knick fan I wanted Ewing to get one for us and for him, but in the end I was more proud that he went out like a man and didn't go to LA to back up Shaq and cop a ring just to say he has one. As big a Knicks/Ewing fan as I am, that would have meant nothing to me.

[J.E.T. Tone Holmes]

This whole spectacle is revolting. It is why I think pro hoops is horrible. It is the only sport where the name on the back of the jersey means everything and the name on the front nothing. There is something wrong with a sport where the entire balance of the league will be determined where one player signs a free agent contract. And to add to the madness, we need a one hour show to make that announcement? What has the NBA become? American Idol? I can't wait for this all to end. I love sports, but to turn on the radio to listen to sports talk and hear only three topics for the past month - James, baseball (the most boring over-talked sport in New York), and soccer - I can't wait for two to end and football camp to start.

hate to break it to you, but any team that manning signed with would be instant contenders ... were not just talking about any old player, lebron is a once in a generation player

[J.E.T. Tone Holmes]

I agree. We've gotten to an age where guys chase rings for themselves instread of striving to deliver one to their franchise and the fans, the way it used to be. As a Knick fan I wanted Ewing to get one for us and for him, but in the end I was more proud that he went out like a man and didn't go to LA to back up Shaq and cop a ring just to say he has one. As big a Knicks/Ewing fan as I am, that would have meant nothing to me.

so he's supposed to piss away his career because the front office cant get its act together?

the cleveland fan base didnt make lebron, he made the fan base! they have no say

[Italian Seafood]

This whole spectacle is revolting. It is why I think pro hoops is horrible. It is the only sport where the name on the back of the jersey means everything and the name on the front nothing. There is something wrong with a sport where the entire balance of the league will be determined where one player signs a free agent contract. And to add to the madness, we need a one hour show to make that announcement? What has the NBA become? American Idol? I can't wait for this all to end. I love sports, but to turn on the radio to listen to sports talk and hear only three topics for the past month - James, baseball (the most boring over-talked sport in New York), and soccer - I can't wait for two to end and football camp to start.

We can thank Michael Jordan for that. Before him it was about the Lakers, the Celtics, the Sixers, the Pistons, etc. As great as the players were--and they were every bit as great as today's players--it was about the teams and the rivalries. With Jordan it became "Be Like Mike" and it was all about him, his own logo, shoes and brand. He was the original drama queen--leaving to play baseball, coming back in the middle of the season, changing his number in the middle of a playoff series, always coming down with some kind of "flu" before a big game so everyone would wonder if he's playing.

That spawned this whole age of athlete we have now, where it's all about the individual and it doesn't matter what team he's on. The NBA and the networks that cover them are just as guilty, it's always about Kobe vs LeBron now when they hype a game or series. Throw in the fact that LeBron is 25 and grew up in the age of Survivor and reality TV, tonight's spectacle is hardly surprising. Francesa is a tool but he said it well yesterday, LeBron grew up with this culture. If he could he'd probably have all the GMs on a stage and give one of them a rose at the end of his TV show. So this is where we're at now.

[Joe Willie White Shoes]

hate to break it to you, but any team that manning signed with would be instant contenders ... were not just talking about any old player, lebron is a once in a generation player

I think you are wrong. Put Manning on the Rams for the past 2-3 years and he would be nothing. In fact, he would probably be injured. How about Archie Manning on the Saints in the 70s? How did that work out? Plunkett on the Pats?? Football is the ultimate team sport. This James crap does not happen in any other sport. A baseball player gets up 1/9th of the time and needs to have the ball hit to him in the field. Even a pitcher plays only every fifth day. Plus, you can't put your best player at bat in the 9th inning unless it is his turn. A football team plays 11 at a time and 45 in a game. The QB is on the field less than half a game when you throw in special teams and is useless without an OL and some weapons. The best hockey players in the world play a little more than 1/3 of the game (a top forward might play 22-23 minutes a game) and still needs linemates. But put James on a team with 4 guys from the Y and that team wins 40+ games and makes the playoffs. IMO, that makes the sport incredibly flawed.

[Barry the Baptist]

with all due respect to kobe, lebron is the best player in the league

Are you serious? There is no way LeBron is better then Kobe. Now if we're talking starting a franchise the age and injury to Kobe has to be considered so Lebron would be the guy to take but as far who is the better player it's not even close. Kobe may be the 2nd best player ever in the NBA (although it's highly debatable) and at this point LeBron isn't even top 15. Even if you take away Kobe's 3 titles with Shaq Kobe going back to back while LeBron couldn't even make the finals playing in an inferior conference speaks volumes to how much better #24 is then #23. When the dust clears LeBron may go down as a great player but he has a long way to go before he's ahead of Bryant.

[Italian Seafood]

so he's supposed to piss away his career because the front office cant get its act together?

the cleveland fan base didnt make lebron, he made the fan base! they have no say

The point is the players and the team are supposed to win titles for their fans. It has now become so much about players validating themselves that they will chase a ring to the point of rigging up a "super team" or leaving their team to go jump on a bandwagon like Ray Bourque did. Cleveland had the best record in the league the past two years, brought in Shaq to help him out, now they've brought in Byron Scott. The front office is doing the best they can with what they have. Even if James left in a dignified manner for whatever reason, that's up to him. But to me, if he goes to Miami to join Wade and Bosh so he can get his ring with a mini-Team USA, that's not what winning it is supposed to be about.

[mj2sexay]

The point is the players and the team are supposed to win titles for their fans. It has now become so much about players validating themselves that they will chase a ring to the point of rigging up a "super team" or leaving their team to go jump on a bandwagon like Ray Bourque did. Cleveland had the best record in the league the past two years, brought in Shaq to help him out, now they've brought in Byron Scott. The front office is doing the best they can with what they have. Even if James left in a dignified manner for whatever reason, that's up to him. But to me, if he goes to Miami to join Wade and Bosh so he can get his ring with a mini-Team USA, that's not what winning it is supposed to be about.

I FELT bad for Borque because at the time Boston was (and despite the newly found rings in my opinion still is) the city of losers.

However having him take part in the farce of the Avalanche retiring his jersey made me want to throw up.

[Barry the Baptist]

I FELT bad for Borque because at the time Boston was (and despite the newly found rings in my opinion still is) the city of losers.

However having him take part in the farce of the Avalanche retiring his jersey made me want to throw up.

To me that's why Karl Malone falling on his face was great, he always was a piece of garbage of a human being so him joining the super team and getting crushed in the finals was comical.

[J.E.T. Tone Holmes]

We can thank Michael Jordan for that. Before him it was about the Lakers, the Celtics, the Sixers, the Pistons, etc. As great as the players were--and they were every bit as great as today's players--it was about the teams and the rivalries. With Jordan it became "Be Like Mike" and it was all about him, his own logo, shoes and brand. He was the original drama queen--leaving to play baseball, coming back in the middle of the season, changing his number in the middle of a playoff series, always coming down with some kind of "flu" before a big game so everyone would wonder if he's playing.

That spawned this whole age of athlete we have now, where it's all about the individual and it doesn't matter what team he's on. The NBA and the networks that cover them are just as guilty, it's always about Kobe vs LeBron now when they hype a game or series. Throw in the fact that LeBron is 25 and grew up in the age of Survivor and reality TV, tonight's spectacle is hardly surprising. Francesa is a tool but he said it well yesterday, LeBron grew up with this culture. If he could he'd probably have all the GMs on a stage and give one of them a rose at the end of his TV show. So this is where we're at now.

wrong ... the nba was headed for bankruptsy until they started marketing bird vs magic. not lakers vs celtics, bird vs magic. and magic got paul westhead fired not long after they won a title, people called him a drama queen too

no one was jordans equal. as fab would say, there was no competition. thats why it became be like mike. it wasnt be like mike until he established that he owned the league

its like that in basketball because its the only sport where the players go head to head on offense and defense ... hockey does to an extent, as well, and they always market ovy vs crosby

[J.E.T. Tone Holmes]

Are you serious? There is no way LeBron is better then Kobe. Now if we're talking starting a franchise the age and injury to Kobe has to be considered so Lebron would be the guy to take but as far who is the better player it's not even close. Kobe may be the 2nd best player ever in the NBA (although it's highly debatable) and at this point LeBron isn't even top 15. Even if you take away Kobe's 3 titles with Shaq Kobe going back to back while LeBron couldn't even make the finals playing in an inferior conference speaks volumes to how much better #24 is then #23. When the dust clears LeBron may go down as a great player but he has a long way to go before he's ahead of Bryant.

if you put lebron on last years lakers team and kobe on last years cavs team, the lakers still win the title and the cavs still dont make the finals

if lebron goes 6-22 against the worst team in the league, that cavs barely have a shot at winning. kobe did it in the finals against the second best team in the league and his team still won.

[Italian Seafood]

wrong ... the nba was headed for bankruptsy until they started marketing bird vs magic. not lakers vs celtics, bird vs magic. and magic got paul westhead fired not long after they won a title, people called him a drama queen too

no one was jordans equal. as fab would say, there was no competition. thats why it became be like mike. it wasnt be like mike until he established that he owned the league

its like that in basketball because its the only sport where the players go head to head on offense and defense ... hockey does to an extent, as well, and they always market ovy vs crosby

Magic and Bird were a great rivalry, in part because they carried it over from their NCAA title game, and they were prima donnas back then too, but it wasn't all about them they way it is with these guys now. The Lakers had Kareem, a bigger, more established star, the Celtics had a ton of stars. Even Dr J had Moses Malone with him when they finally won. People then acknowledged that the Doctor finally got his ring, but not to the extent that you see it now. Dr J didn't go running to the Lakers to beat Boston, he did it wih his own team.

In the 90s you had the Dream Team guys scattered all around the league, so there was more parity and not the one super rival for the Bulls, at least in the Finals. The Knicks and Pacers, and Cavs in the early 90s, were all in the East, so you didn't have the great Finals rivalries, but you had them.

[Italian Seafood]

I FELT bad for Borque because at the time Boston was (and despite the newly found rings in my opinion still is) the city of losers.

However having him take part in the farce of the Avalanche retiring his jersey made me want to throw up.

Being Devils fans it was particularly irritating, but to me it was still chasing someone else's ring. Colorado would have won without him, they had already done so.

[J.E.T. Tone Holmes]

The point is the players and the team are supposed to win titles for their fans. It has now become so much about players validating themselves that they will chase a ring to the point of rigging up a "super team" or leaving their team to go jump on a bandwagon like Ray Bourque did. Cleveland had the best record in the league the past two years, brought in Shaq to help him out, now they've brought in Byron Scott. The front office is doing the best they can with what they have. Even if James left in a dignified manner for whatever reason, that's up to him. But to me, if he goes to Miami to join Wade and Bosh so he can get his ring with a mini-Team USA, that's not what winning it is supposed to be about.

no they are not. you think any player (outside of world cup competition) is working out right now thinking, "man, i have to do this for the fans!" the best players have, and always will, do it for themselves first and foremost

because those same "fans" will try and invalidate his career if he doesnt win a championship

and about the front office, sometimes "the best you can do", isnt good enough ... look at the league, cleveland is regressing and other teams are improving. its not going to get any better

[mj2sexay]

To me that's why Karl Malone falling on his face was great, he always was a piece of garbage of a human being so him joining the super team and getting crushed in the finals was comical.

You have no idea how much I wanted Rodman to stiffly punch him right in the fucking face during their tag match at bash at the beach.

I'm sure Demetrius Bell was rooting for the same.

[J.E.T. Tone Holmes]

Magic and Bird were a great rivalry, in part because they carried it over from their NCAA title game, and they were prima donnas back then too, but it wasn't all about them they way it is with these guys now. The Lakers had Kareem, a bigger, more established star, the Celtics had a ton of stars. Even Dr J had Moses Malone with him when they finally won. People then acknowledged that the Doctor finally got his ring, but not to the extent that you see it now. Dr J did go running to the Lakers to beat Boston, he did it wih his own team.

In the 90s you had the Dream Team guys scattered all around the league, so there was more parity and not the one super rival for the Bulls, at least in the Finals. The Knicks and Pacers, and Cavs in the early 90s, were all in the East, so you didn't have the great Finals rivalries, but you had them.

funny that you bring up moses malone, the last player to leave his team after winning an mvp. and phila won the title the very same year

there was no free angency back in the day so it couldnt happen. in the 90s, salaries were starting to pick up and people were more concerned with getting a piece of the pie than winning a title.

karl malone and GP joined the lakers for well below their worth to try and win a title. losing sucks, im not going to knock anyone who is trying to be a winner

[Italian Seafood]

no they are not. you think any player (outside of world cup competition) is working out right now thinking, "man, i have to do this for the fans!" the best players have, and always will, do it for themselves first and foremost

because those same "fans" will try and invalidate his career if he doesnt win a championship

and about the front office, sometimes "the best you can do", isnt good enough ... look at the league, cleveland is regressing and other teams are improving. its not going to get any better

It's not if LeBron runs and hides in Miami. He's 25, they brought in a good coach who has won as a player and coach, they have a ten year window to win a ring if he stays in Cleveland. It's his city, his home, certainly the fans should factor in. I'm a realist, I understand athletes are have to look out for themselves first, but the huge money they make ultimately comes from the fans. Without the fans buying jerseys and tickets and watching the games, he's in a park playing for nothing. If he wins a ring or rings in Miami with those guys it won't mean nearly as much as if he wins just one in Cleveland. Yes, he can say he won one but everyone will know how he did it and that will be judged accordingly.

[mj2sexay]

by the way rich, you sir are the doctor of style.

[Italian Seafood]

funny that you bring up moses malone, the last player to leave his team after winning an mvp. and phila won the title the very same year

there was no free angency back in the day so it couldnt happen. in the 90s, salaries were starting to pick up and people were more concerned with getting a piece of the pie than winning a title.

karl malone and GP joined the lakers for well below their worth to try and win a title. losing sucks, im not going to knock anyone who is trying to be a winner

Every situation is a bit different. Karl Malone and Payton were at the end of their rope, had made their money and were only lacking a ring. Even if they had won on Shaq and Kobe's back, again they're not fooling people. It would have still been a small fraction of Malone winning in Utah with Stockton or Payton winning in Seattle. Moses Malone was in a similar situation when the Sixers got him.

LeBron is entering his prime, it doesn't seem that way because he entered the league at 18, but if he's worthy of carrying a team and getting the glory of "winning" his ring like Jordan and the others before him, I don't think the Miami thing is the way to do it. Even if he went to a team on his own like the Knicks or Bulls, you would certainly have to credit him if he won there. But to go in with a mini Dream Team and do it that way to me is taking the back door and history will reflect that.

[J.E.T. Tone Holmes]

It's not if LeBron runs and hides in Miami. He's 25, they brought in a good coach who has won as a player and coach, they have a ten year window to win a ring if he stays in Cleveland. It's his city, his home, certainly the fans should factor in. I'm a realist, I understand athletes are have to look out for themselves first, but the huge money they make ultimately comes from the fans. Without the fans buying jerseys and tickets and watching the games, he's in a park playing for nothing. If he wins a ring or rings in Miami with those guys it won't mean nearly as much as if he wins just one in Cleveland. Yes, he can say he won one but everyone will know how he did it and that will be judged accordingly.

the best player on cleveland is jamison and he is regressing. they have one player with development potential and thats hickson ... they only have a 10 year window because of lebron, and so does any team that he signs with

the fans of every team pay his salary, not just the fans of cleveland, who like i mentioned, are more lebron fans than they are cavs fans, anyway

[Italian Seafood]

the best player on cleveland is jamison and he is regressing. they have one player with development potential and thats hickson ... they only have a 10 year window because of lebron, and so does any team that he signs with

the fans of every team pay his salary, not just the fans of cleveland, who like i mentioned, are more lebron fans than they are cavs fans, anyway

That's kind of my point. If he stays in Cleveland, you don't think they could get guys to go there who also want to win a ring with LeBron? Yeah, Bosh declined, but he's showing himself up to be somewhat of a bitch during this whole process. You got Byron Scott coaching and LeBron entrenched there, you'll get guys to come with any kind of competent management. Again, it's not like they're chasing the 8-seed the past few years, they had the best record in the NBA and were in the Finals a couple of years ago.

[TheCoolerGlennFoley]

Say what you want about LeBron's motives for joining Miami, but it certainly says something about his competitiveness. Bill Simmons said it in his latest article, no way Jordan or Kobe would want to team up with Wade and Bosh, they'd be out busting their ass to put themselves in the best positition to beat them. LeBron may be the most talented player in the NBA, but until he proves he can be that kind of alpha dog, the title still belongs to Kobe.

[J.E.T. Tone Holmes]

Every situation is a bit different. Karl Malone and Payton were at the end of their rope, had made their money and were only lacking a ring. Even if they had won on Shaq and Kobe's back, again they're not fooling people. It would have still been a small fraction of Malone winning in Utah with Stockton or Payton winning in Seattle. Moses Malone was in a similar situation when the Sixers got him.

LeBron is entering his prime, it doesn't seem that way because he entered the league at 18, but if he's worthy of carrying a team and getting the glory of "winning" his ring like Jordan and the others before him, I don't think the Miami thing is the way to do it. Even if he went to a team on his own like the Knicks or Bulls, you would certainly have to credit him if he won there. But to go in with a mini Dream Team and do it that way to me is taking the back door and history will reflect that.

have you heard gp on nba tv? everytime the topic comes to championships, he points out how he got one and c-webb didnt. they rarely question where/when he got it

moses was 27, in his prime and just won the mvp

tim duncan, grant hill and tracy mcgrady tried to do the same thing at the begining of last decade. but they spurs had recently won a title and duncan had the admiral ... but if they lost that finals and he did leave, no one would have said that he didnt "win" his ring if he got one with orlando

people just hate on lebron no matter what he does

[J.E.T. Tone Holmes]

That's kind of my point. If he stays in Cleveland, you don't think they could get guys to go there who also want to win a ring with LeBron? Yeah, Bosh declined, but he's showing himself up to be somewhat of a bitch during this whole process. You got Byron Scott coaching and LeBron entrenched there, you'll get guys to come with any kind of competent management. Again, it's not like they're chasing the 8-seed the past few years, they had the best record in the NBA and were in the Finals a couple of years ago.

i dont think they can, they have no cap space and one trade asset

[Italian Seafood]

have you heard gp on nba tv? everytime the topic comes to championships, he points out how he got one and c-webb didnt. they rarely question where/when he got it

moses was 27, in his prime and just won the mvp

tim duncan, grant hill and tracy mcgrady tried to do the same thing at the begining of last decade. but they spurs had recently won a title and duncan had the admiral ... but if they lost that finals and he did leave, no one would have said that he didnt "win" his ring if he got one with orlando

people just hate on lebron no matter what he does

I like LeBron, I could do without the TV show but overall I think he's handled the whole process pretty well, no silly tweats or even comments like Wade's "New York state of mind", etc, which was all bullshit. The only thing he could do that I wouldn't respect is joining those guys in Miami, to me that's too easy a way out for a guy 25 in his position. If he stays in Cleveland I'll respect the hell out of it, if he comes to the Knicks I'll be psyched. If he goes to any of the other teams I'll be shocked, but wouldn't even have a problem with that except I personally hate the Bulls and don't want him on the Nets.

Regarding the guys on NBA Network, if I was Webber I'd certainly question how Payton got a ring if he was using it to one-up me. Why not? I forgot he even won one, that's how instrumental he was.

[ToonWalker]

Say what you want about LeBron's motives for joining Miami, but it certainly says something about his competitiveness. Bill Simmons said it in his latest article, no way Jordan or Kobe would want to team up with Wade and Bosh, they'd be out busting their ass to put themselves in the best positition to beat them. LeBron may be the most talented player in the NBA, but until he proves he can be that kind of alpha dog, the title still belongs to Kobe.

I totally agree.
Jordan would not have taken less money and agreed to a lesser role to join Isiah Thomas on the Pistons.

His determination was to prove he was the best by taking down the Pistons. I doubt he would have agreed to be second fiddle (or even "co-fiddle") on a team that had been established as Thomas' and Dumars'.

Obviously I'd rather LeBron went to NY, Cleveland, or Chicago before he joined a dream-trio in Miami. The Heat would instantly become the most hated team in the NBA.

[17a_tailgater]

cavs salary forecast
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[Mr Electric]

Say what you want about LeBron's motives for joining Miami, but it certainly says something about his competitiveness. Bill Simmons said it in his latest article, no way Jordan or Kobe would want to team up with Wade and Bosh, they'd be out busting their ass to put themselves in the best positition to beat them. LeBron may be the most talented player in the NBA, but until he proves he can be that kind of alpha dog, the title still belongs to Kobe.

Great post - Bryant is the most competitive player in this league. I bet he's laughing at the situation that's unfolding. They're doing this because no one can beat him and the Lakers.

I'll lose all my respect for LeBron if he signs with Miami. It'll just show everyone in the world that he can't win by himself.

The title should belong to Kobe Bryant even if James wins multiple championships in Miami - Bryant stayed true to his team and help build the Lakers back up.

If James joins the Heat, I'll be rooting against "the Big 3" for the rest of their basketball careers.

[Italian Seafood]

I totally agree.
Jordan would not have taken less money and agreed to a lesser role to join Isiah Thomas on the Pistons.

His determination was to prove he was the best by taking down the Pistons. I doubt he would have agreed to be second fiddle (or even "co-fiddle") on a team that had been established as Thomas' and Dumars'.

Obviously I'd rather LeBron went to NY, Cleveland, or Chicago before he joined a dream-trio in Miami. The Heat would instantly become the most hated team in the NBA.

The only arguments for it are no state tax in Florida makes up a lot of the money they leave on the table, plus the weather during the NBA season. Personally I'd rather live in the cold but I realize most people prefer Miami over Cleveland from November to April.

From a basketball perspective, I guess that's what bothers me. What happened to competition? It's like if Jordan and Ewing got together with Barkley in Orlando somewhere to go win titles for themselves. Hell would sooner freeze over.

[J.E.T. Tone Holmes]

I like LeBron, I could do without the TV show but overall I think he's handled the whole process pretty well, no silly tweats or even comments like Wade's "New York state of mind", etc, which was all bullshit. The only thing he could do that I wouldn't respect is joining those guys in Miami, to me that's too easy a way out for a guy 25 in his position. If he stays in Cleveland I'll respect the hell out of it, if he comes to the Knicks I'll be psyched. If he goes to any of the other teams I'll be shocked, but wouldn't even have a problem with that except I personally hate the Bulls and don't want him on the Nets.

Regarding the guys on NBA Network, if I was Webber I'd certainly question how Payton got a ring if he was using it to one-up me. Why not? I forgot he even won one, that's how instrumental he was.

yea, i can see how the tv can rub people the wrong way (pause, grand-dad), but there was going to be some sort of espn special on him regardless. i like the way he flipped it

i hear what youre saying about leaving, but he gets one shot at this. if he stays in cleveland, he could end up like kg on the wolves, or duncan on the spurs, who knows? but i can understand if he doesnt want to leave his future in someone elses hands

haha, yea i forgot about gp's title too. the first time i heard that i was like "huh? oh yea" ... but c-webb tried to do the same with the pistons, so he cant really talk

[J.E.T. Tone Holmes]

Great post - Bryant is the most competitive player in this league. I bet he's laughing at the situation that's unfolding. They're doing this because no one can beat him and the Lakers.

I'll lose all my respect for LeBron if he signs with Miami. It'll just show everyone in the world that he can't win by himself.

The title should belong to Kobe Bryant even if James wins multiple championships in Miami - Bryant stayed true to his team and help build the Lakers back up.

If James joins the Heat, I'll be rooting against "the Big 3" for the rest of their basketball careers.

does no one remember when kobe tried many times to force his way off of the lakers? it wasnt that long ago

[Mambo9]

Great post - Bryant is the most competitive player in this league. I bet he's laughing at the situation that's unfolding. They're doing this because no one can beat him and the Lakers.

I'll lose all my respect for LeBron if he signs with Miami. It'll just show everyone in the world that he can't win by himself.

The title should belong to Kobe Bryant even if James wins multiple championships in Miami - Bryant stayed true to his team and help build the Lakers back up.

If James joins the Heat, I'll be rooting against "the Big 3" for the rest of their basketball careers.

I don't get all the "alpha male" critics... if he agrees to take less money to be on a good team isn't that a good thing?

Isn't that what we ask of Revis & co?

To me if a talented guy like LeBron accepts less money to build a super-team he's showing me he's smart and cares more about winning it all rather than just personal accolades...

[Italian Seafood]

I don't get all the "alpha male" critics... if he agrees to take less money to be on a good team isn't that a good thing?

Isn't that what we ask of Revis & co?

To me if a talented guy like LeBron accepts less money to build a super-team he's showing me he's smart and cares more about winning it all rather than just personal accolades...

Revis is already on the team, it's different to try not to break up what you currently have over greed than to create something artificial because you couldn't win on your own. Plus, basketball by nature is more about one guy dominating the game. The Jets need to pay offensive players to put points on the board while Revis is off the field, you don't have that in basketball.

That's another point about LeBron staying in Cleveland. If I remember right, Jordan had made so much money by their second 3-peat, I believe he took less salary so the Bulls could bring in the players they need to win. LeBron could do the same thing over the next 5-10 years and still end up a billionaire.

[FinNasty]

Great post - Bryant is the most competitive player in this league. I bet he's laughing at the situation that's unfolding. They're doing this because no one can beat him and the Lakers.

I'll lose all my respect for LeBron if he signs with Miami. It'll just show everyone in the world that he can't win by himself.

The title should belong to Kobe Bryant even if James wins multiple championships in Miami - Bryant stayed true to his team and help build the Lakers back up.

If James joins the Heat, I'll be rooting against "the Big 3" for the rest of their basketball careers.

Who wins one by himself? What was Kobe doing between the Shaq/Gasol years?

Nothing...

Everyone needs to win championships with others. Even Jordan played with one of the better SFs to ever play the game...

[FinNasty]

does no one remember when kobe tried many times to force his way off of the lakers? it wasnt that long ago

LOL! For real...

People have some real short term memories. Kobe wasnt doing shit w/o a stud next to him, and he was trying and complaining to leave LA...

[624]

Who wins one by himself? What was Kobe doing between the Shaq/Gasol years?

Nothing...

Everyone needs to win championships with others. Even Jordan played with one of the better SFs to ever play the game...

I just don't think people will be as impressed if Team USA wins the NBA Championship...

[J.E.T. Tone Holmes]

Revis is already on the team, it's different to try not to break up what you currently have over greed than to create something artificial because you couldn't win on your own. Plus, basketball by nature is more about one guy dominating the game. The Jets need to pay offensive players to put points on the board while Revis is off the field, you don't have that in basketball.

That's another point about LeBron staying in Cleveland. If I remember right, Jordan had made so much money by their second 3-peat, I believe he took less salary so the Bulls could bring in the players they need to win. LeBron could do the same thing over the next 5-10 years and still end up a billionaire.

it was actually the opposite. he took less money during the first three-peat because he was making so much from endorements. for years two and three of the second three-peat he like 30 and 35 mill. and the cap was like 40

[624]

LOL! For real...

People have some real short term memories. Kobe wasnt doing shit w/o a stud next to him, and he was trying and complaining to leave LA...

He also raped someone and everyone forgot about that.

He is good at getting out of trouble:

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[Italian Seafood]

it was actually the opposite. he took less money during the first three-peat because he was making so much from endorements. for years two and three of the second three-peat he like 30 and 35 mill. and the cap was like 40

I forget the actual timeline but that makes sense. I guess AA baseball and gambling didn't pay as well as being an NBA superstar. Who knew?

[ace_o_spades]

Who wins one by himself? What was Kobe doing between the Shaq/Gasol years?

Nothing...

Everyone needs to win championships with others. Even Jordan played with one of the better SFs to ever play the game...

Yes, that's one guy.

[Barry the Baptist]

if you put lebron on last years lakers team and kobe on last years cavs team, the lakers still win the title and the cavs still dont make the finals

if lebron goes 6-22 against the worst team in the league, that cavs barely have a shot at winning. kobe did it in the finals against the second best team in the league and his team still won.

You forgetting that Kobe had 15 very big rebounds in that game... he also was 11 /15 from the line.

[ace_o_spades]

Kobe was 6-22 and still played his heart out. Watching LeBron in the playoffs this year, I didn't see that fire in his play.

[Italian Seafood]

Yes, that's one guy.

And David Stern and the game officials, that's three or four more guys.

[ace_o_spades]

And David Stern and the game officials, that's three or four more guys.

then how many ppl would that be for miami if they get james? 7?

[kinghenry89]

I'm a little late to the party, but here are a few things I've been thinking over this morning:

-Someone earlier in the thread questioned why, after maintaining complete silence for 2 years, Lebron would suddenly let it slip that he was sold on Miami on the morning of his "dramatic" announcement. I agree totally, it doesn't make sense.

-I still have a tough time believing that Lebron wants to be the A-Rod to Wade's Jeter. It just doesn't seem likely that that someone so egocentric would be willing to let someone else constantly take the last shot.

-I have an even tougher time believing that ESPN would break this story so far in advance of their hour long special. If Chris Broussard actually had 100% reliable sources, I guarantee that they would've directed him to sit on the story. I'm not saying that Lebron isn't going to Miami, I'm just saying that there's no way this is a done deal. I wouldn't be surprised at all if ESPN was hyping the Miami angle just to make it more dramatic when he decides to go back to Cleveland.

[The Great American]

Do you guys really think King James would kick Cleveland in the balls during a prime time TV event? I have a gut feeling he's staying with thew Cavs. I wouldn't bet against the Heat either.

I would flip over my chair if he retired from basketball and signed a deal to play baseball with the Indians!!

[Italian Seafood]

I'm a little late to the party, but here are a few things I've been thinking over this morning:

-Someone earlier in the thread questioned why, after maintaining complete silence for 2 years, Lebron would suddenly let it slip that he was sold on Miami on the morning of his "dramatic" announcement. I agree totally, it doesn't make sense.

-I still have a tough time believing that Lebron wants to be the A-Rod to Wade's Jeter. It just doesn't seem likely that that someone so egocentric would be willing to let someone else constantly take the last shot.

-I have an even tougher time believing that ESPN would break this story so far in advance of their hour long special. If Chris Broussard actually had 100% reliable sources, I guarantee that they would've directed him to sit on the story. I'm not saying that Lebron isn't going to Miami, I'm just saying that there's no way this is a done deal. I wouldn't be surprised at all if ESPN was hyping the Miami angle just to make it more dramatic when he decides to go back to Cleveland.

The bright side for me is Mike Francessa is convinced that James isn't going to Miami while Stephen A. Smith is super-duper convinced that he is. So one of them gets to be wrong.

[kbgreen]

Great post - Bryant is the most competitive player in this league. I bet he's laughing at the situation that's unfolding. They're doing this because no one can beat him and the Lakers.

I'll lose all my respect for LeBron if he signs with Miami. It'll just show everyone in the world that he can't win by himself.

The title should belong to Kobe Bryant even if James wins multiple championships in Miami - Bryant stayed true to his team and help build the Lakers back up.

If James joins the Heat, I'll be rooting against "the Big 3" for the rest of their basketball careers.

You know LBJ to Miami would take the target off Kobe's back as most teams will be focusing on Miami as the team to beat and not LA. Most years the past champion has the tougher go as teams "get up" for their games but I bet Miami would be the team to have that challange next year.

LA just has to get the the finals then all bets are off. Even with LBJ, Wade, and Bosh La has the better front court.

[Cakes]

Stuart Scott to be covered in powder by 9:02

[Italian Seafood]

Stuart Scott to be covered in powder by 9:02

Yeah, perfect that they got him for this. I still think his puffy eye is the Jets' second greatest contribution to the sporting world, behind only Super Bowl III.

[ToonWalker]

Wilbon is practicing with one of these for tonight's interview with LeBron.

xbsSeVr5NSI

[Barry the Baptist]

I'm a little late to the party, but here are a few things I've been thinking over this morning:

-Someone earlier in the thread questioned why, after maintaining complete silence for 2 years, Lebron would suddenly let it slip that he was sold on Miami on the morning of his "dramatic" announcement. I agree totally, it doesn't make sense.

-I still have a tough time believing that Lebron wants to be the A-Rod to Wade's Jeter. It just doesn't seem likely that that someone so egocentric would be willing to let someone else constantly take the last shot.

-I have an even tougher time believing that ESPN would break this story so far in advance of their hour long special. If Chris Broussard actually had 100% reliable sources, I guarantee that they would've directed him to sit on the story. I'm not saying that Lebron isn't going to Miami, I'm just saying that there's no way this is a done deal. I wouldn't be surprised at all if ESPN was hyping the Miami angle just to make it more dramatic when he decides to go back to Cleveland.

I just have a hard time believing it's an hour long fuck you to his home, then again this is the guy who wore a Yankee hat in Cleveland to an Indians playoff game so who the hell knows. Regardless of what ESPN says at this point I still think it's NY or Cleveland.

[Italian Seafood]

Wilbon is practicing with one of these for tonight's interview with LeBron.

xbsSeVr5NSI

:lol:

Maybe they'll bring Ahmad Rashad out of retirement to ask the really hard hitting questions.

[Italian Seafood]

...then again this is the guy who wore a Yankee hat in Cleveland to an Indians playoff game so who the hell knows.

I think he's just one of those dudes who wears a Yankee hat all the time. I see a lot of foreigners wear them who don't even know what a baseball is or how to kick it.

[Doogstein]

He's coming down here to South FL. At the end of the day he wants to go where he will win the most rings and Miami gives him that opportunity. He doesn't care about who he does it with all he wants is the most rings he can get before he hangs up his shoes for good. He can't do that in Cleveland. He gave them 6 years to put together a quality team around him and at the end of it all Cleveland failed not Lebron. Granted Chitown does give him that opportunity as well but sadly that will always be MJ's squad and Lebron is looking out for MJ to help him protect his legacy and not have the conversation come up of who was the best player in Bulls history. He wants to keep that answer an unmistakable one. So the end of the day MIA is his best shot. He may have to share the glory with 2 other possible HOF'ers but it won't matter when he's got enough rings to fill up one hand if not more by the time he retires.