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Around the League => Around the NBA => Topic started by: JSD on May 17, 2018, 02:29:32 AM

Title: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: JSD on May 17, 2018, 02:29:32 AM
Let us assume that the Cavs lose this series in 4-5 Games. What do you think will happen with LeBron? What is the team LeBron chooses able to do to get him?
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: JSD on May 17, 2018, 02:38:39 AM
I think he flirts with the Knicks but ultimately signs with the Lakers. For LeBron, I think the last chapter of his career is about setting himself up for the aftermath. New York or LA are the places to be for the endeavor of setting yourself up business wise after basketball.
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: SparzWizard on May 17, 2018, 02:43:53 AM
Lakers.

To follow Kobe's shadow, a chance to win championship, Hollywood and beaches...you name it.
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: JSD on May 17, 2018, 02:45:09 AM
The Knicks would need to clear too much space to do it, I'm not sure they have the assets it would take to clear enough salary. That Noah contract really takes them out of the running, unless Cleveland is willing to take on Noah?

- Noah, #9 Pick, Ntilikina, Mudiay and Lance Thomas for a LeBron that would walk anyway? Might be worth it.
- Knicks could then send Hardaway and Lee to OKC for Melo on a cap clearing 1 year rental.
- Trade Kanter to a team willing to absorb his 1 year $18 Million contract.
- Sign Chris Paul to a 1 year $20


Zinger
Melo
James
Wade
Paul

BENCH
Rose
Beasley
Jeff Green


It would be such a Knicks thing to do.
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: JSD on May 17, 2018, 02:46:19 AM
Lakers.

To follow Kobe's shadow, a chance to win championship, Hollywood and beaches...you name it.

When LeBron goes to the Finals again he wants to go through the West to get there because that will mean he is favored to win.
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: Androslav on May 17, 2018, 02:49:31 AM
I pick the Lakers
http://forums.celticsblog.com/index.php?topic=96249.msg2502876#msg2502876
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: JSD on May 17, 2018, 02:50:52 AM
Can someone explain to me how the Lakers pull this off? How do they get rid of the Deng contract? What will it take to get the Cavs to take that deal on?
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?ccom
Post by: CelticsElite on May 17, 2018, 03:17:29 AM
I could see the case with the rockets

I read a lot of cavs fans forum posts. A successful lebron team needs 3 pt shooters. Or at least that's what lebron prefers around him

At LA, ball hogs the ball and plays poorly off the ball since he's a pass first point like rondo. Ingram also plays better with the ball in his hand and his shot is a bit inconsistent. Kuzma is ok, but that doesn't seem like an amazing core.... Kuzma lebron and maybe paul george? Or wait a year for cousins to come back from an injury only a few have come back from?

Its hard to see where lebron ends up
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: Androslav on May 17, 2018, 05:03:29 AM
Can someone explain to me how the Lakers pull this off? How do they get rid of the Deng contract? What will it take to get the Cavs to take that deal on?
Remember Mozgov contract? They exchanged Russell for Kuzma while losing it, and then it was a year longer deal than Deng's is now. It is possible.
They have 25th pick as a sweetener.
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: Green-18 on May 17, 2018, 06:15:08 AM
Does anyone know the specific rules on trading super max contracts?  If I remember correctly LeBron can't be traded until after a full season if he signs a super max deal.  I wasn't sure if this type of move is in play for Cleveland.

To answer the OP's question, I'm beginning to think that Philly really makes sense if we are considering both sides of the equation.  The Sixers give LeBron a chance to compete now without sacrificing any of their young talent.  There's also the potential for LeBron to lighten his workload over the next 3 or 4 seasons while Simmons and Embiid enter their prime years. 

All other scenarios provide a one or two year window to MAYBE compete with Golden State.  Houston must be enticing but I can't see Gilbert agreeing to a sign & trade for any of Houston's mediocre assets.   
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: Celtics4ever on May 17, 2018, 06:17:22 AM
Who cares.......
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: Spilling Green Dye on May 17, 2018, 06:35:44 AM
Who cares.......

I certainly do.  As soon as Lebron had actual competition in the East from 2008 to 2010 he decided to form a super team in Miami so that he could keep his easy path.  At this point in his career I think he loves the narrative that he "drags teams to the finals" even if he doesn't win.  For this reason I don't see him leaving the East, which is why I suspect he will go to Philly.  And if he goes to Philly then you should 100% care about that if you're a Celtics fan.
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: Eja117 on May 17, 2018, 07:49:03 AM
Why isn't Hell an option?
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: Eja117 on May 17, 2018, 07:50:33 AM
I feel sorry for whatever team gets him. The Sixers with LeBron pose no threat whatsoever to a healthy Celtics team. None.
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: Surferdad on May 17, 2018, 07:53:26 AM
I feel sorry for whatever team gets him. The Sixers with LeBron pose no threat whatsoever to a healthy Celtics team. None.
Right.  I would have zero concern about that scenario.   ;D
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: Celtics4ever on May 17, 2018, 08:07:35 AM
Quote
As soon as Lebron had actual competition in the East from 2008 to 2010 he decided to form a super team in Miami so that he could keep his easy path.

LeBron is a still a great player but you can see him get tired at the end of games now.   Father time beats all athletes and although he is still impressive and the best player on the planet, I think we are starting to see signs of the grind on his body.  I think the playing more minutes than he ever has, had more to do with him wilting in game 2 than the neck injury.
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: Who on May 17, 2018, 08:18:32 AM
Quote
As soon as Lebron had actual competition in the East from 2008 to 2010 he decided to form a super team in Miami so that he could keep his easy path.

LeBron is a still a great player but you can see him get tired at the end of games now.   Father time beats all athletes and although he is still impressive and the best player on the planet, I think we are starting to see signs of the grind on his body.  I think the playing more minutes than he ever has, had more to do with him wilting in game 2 than the neck injury.

Yeah, LeBron has to stop trying to do everything for his team. He is too old for that work load. He needs to learn how to share the responsibility. How to trust his teammates. LeBron has always struggled with that.

He needs to be on a team that a has a couple of other legit 15+ppg threats. With a coach who will demand proper ball and player movement and not just let LeBron dribble the life out of his team's offense.
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: manl_lui on May 17, 2018, 08:18:37 AM
Lakers don't make sense for me because they will be pinned against the Rockets or GSW, with LeBron being 33, I don't see him having the patience to develop Lonzo and build chemistry with 1-2 other star players from FA and waste a season. I feel like he wants to be on a team where they have a real shot to make the finals from day 1

Rockets if they can make room I see have a chance, since they already have his buddy CP3 and possibly MVP in Harden, his last hurrah vs the Warriors for the next few years (also like him to get out of the East, let GSW and Hou duke it out for the next few years)

Philly I see have a chance, Simmons who I see is basically mini LeBron with a shot, can rebound and pass the ball, LeBron can mentor him, and with Embiid as center. I think they can surround that team with a few more pieces
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: Eja117 on May 17, 2018, 08:35:19 AM
LeBron is absolutely one of the most overrated players the NBA has ever had. If you were an alien from another planet and you just watched the last two games he played in and someone told you "The best player was in that game" the alien would go through at least 3 names before he got to Bron.

He had a day. That day is over. He's LeDone.
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: gouki88 on May 17, 2018, 08:38:02 AM
LeBron is absolutely one of the most overrated players the NBA has ever had. If you were an alien from another planet and you just watched the last two games he played in and someone told you "The best player was in that game" the alien would go through at least 3 names before he got to Bron.

He had a day. That day is over. He's LeDone.
He's incredibly overrated. It baffles me. All the people talking about how there's a "debate" over whether or not you'd pick MJ over LeBron are hilariously out of touch.
Mainstream media outlets hype him up because the NBA product isn't that good right now. Boring offence, weak defence where you can't put your hands on a guy, and awful officiating, and they need someone to make it seem like it's in a good spot

Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: jambr380 on May 17, 2018, 08:44:34 AM
I don't know how Lebron ever steps foot in Cleveland again if he takes off for Philly. "I know it was me who demanded we sign all these mediocre players to humongous contracts, but I am going to go to the state next door to win with them because they are younger and have a brighter future."

I realize he brought a championship to CLE so they at least have something to celebrate, but ditching them twice for better teams seems a little much. At least going to LA provides him an entirely different excuse - regardless of how good the supporting cast he brings with them.
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: SHAQATTACK on May 17, 2018, 09:01:28 AM
Fishing
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: Green-18 on May 17, 2018, 09:12:13 AM
I don't know how Lebron ever steps foot in Cleveland again if he takes off for Philly. "I know it was me who demanded we sign all these mediocre players to humongous contracts, but I am going to go to the state next door to win with them because they are younger and have a brighter future."

I realize he brought a championship to CLE so they at least have something to celebrate, but ditching them twice for better teams seems a little much. At least going to LA provides him an entirely different excuse - regardless of how good the supporting cast he brings with them.

People also like to ignore the fact he went back to Cleveland because it was the perfect scenario to form a younger big three.  He bailed on Miami as soon as they were no longer the consensus title favorite.  LeBron is the ultimate cherry picker when it comes to team building.
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: jpotter33 on May 17, 2018, 09:17:27 AM
I think it's Houston or the Lakers.

If Houston ends up losing a tight series to Golden State and we handily beat Cleveland in 5 or 6 games, I think Houston has to be considered the front runner.

I really don't see Philadelphia as an option. There are too many question marks regarding their youth, injuries, and potential fit (Simmons + Lebron just won't work well), and I think the spanking we gave them without our two top players just furthers that concern.
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: Rosco917 on May 17, 2018, 10:22:17 AM
I'm so tired of hearing about LeRingchaser.

He'll stay out of the West where his chances reduce of being in the finals.
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: TheSundanceKid on May 17, 2018, 10:31:56 AM
I think he flirts with the Knicks but ultimately signs with the Lakers. For LeBron, I think the last chapter of his career is about setting himself up for the aftermath. New York or LA are the places to be for the endeavor of setting yourself up business wise after basketball.

Do you think he's close to retirement? He's been playing a long time so I could understand that. However at the same time, despite all of the sideshows, I think he's genuinely in love with competing and the game of basketball. I don't think he retires until he's 40. And I don't think he takes below the max for his next contract.

I don't really see him going to Philly, it's not the right fit for him. He's going to want a team ready to compete right now. To me that's the Rockets or Lakers (if they have an amazing summer).

I haven't checked salaries but in any world could New Orleans be an option? Ad and LeBron would be hella scary.
Edit: For example, trading Jrue Holiday to Orlando for a package, reduce the salary commitments down by roughly $15m, let Boogie walk should open up enough space.
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: footey on May 17, 2018, 11:09:16 AM
I don't think the off season is a good one for Lebron to re-calibrate.  Team up with Paul George to win a championship? Really think Paul George gives him more than Kevin Love?  George is a better player, but when you factor in redundancy of skill set, Love is a better team-mate for Lebron than George, no?

Lebron's only hope is that Kawhi forces a trade to a team that will then have enough cap space to allow Lebron to sign up as a FA; or maybe willing to do a sign and trade with CLE (who may be open to that since they will be in rebuild mode anyway). 

I guess Lebron could sign with the Sixers, who then trade Fultz, Laker pick, Sixer picks, maybe Saric to entice Spurs to trade Leonard (Saric will be the sticking point probably, but Spurs would be smart to insist he be included, otherwise it would be an awful trade from their end).

Yeah, the more I think about it, if the Sixers can get Leonard, they can get Lebron.  This will put pressure on Boston to trade for Leonard, won't it?   Part of a good offense is good defense, and vice versa.  Celtics in a much better position to offer an enticing trade package than Philly. It is not even close, unless Philly includes Ben Simmons, which would be trading the future away for the present.  Obviously Embiid is not touchable.

Will be a very intriguing off season.
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: Moranis on May 17, 2018, 11:11:58 AM
I don't think the off season is a good one for Lebron to re-calibrate.  Team up with Paul George to win a championship? Really think Paul George gives him more than Kevin Love?  George is a better player, but when you factor in redundancy of skill set, Love is a better team-mate for Lebron than George, no?

Lebron's only hope is that Kawhi forces a trade to a team that will then have enough cap space to allow Lebron to sign up as a FA; or maybe willing to do a sign and trade with CLE (who may be open to that since they will be in rebuild mode anyway). 

I guess Lebron could sign with the Sixers, who then trade Fultz, Laker pick, Sixer picks, maybe Saric to entice Spurs to trade Leonard (Saric will be the sticking point probably, but Spurs would be smart to insist he be included, otherwise it would be an awful trade from their end).

Yeah, the more I think about it, if the Sixers can get Leonard, they can get Lebron.  This will put pressure on Boston to trade for Leonard, won't it?   Part of a good offense is good defense, and vice versa.  Celtics in a much better position to offer an enticing trade package than Philly. It is not even close, unless Philly includes Ben Simmons, which would be trading the future away for the present.  Obviously Embiid is not touchable.

Will be a very intriguing off season.
I could absolutely see him stay in Cleveland on another 1 year contract and see how next year goes before he plots his next move.  Unless he goes to Houston or Philadelphia, I really don't see a logical landing spot for basketball purposes, but waiting another year could open up some other locations (maybe the Lakers have their crap together by then, or maybe the Knicks figure things out, etc. - and the Sixers could still very much be in play if they don't use the space this summer).
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: GreenEnvy on May 17, 2018, 11:24:39 AM
I don't know how Lebron ever steps foot in Cleveland again if he takes off for Philly. "I know it was me who demanded we sign all these mediocre players to humongous contracts, but I am going to go to the state next door to win with them because they are younger and have a brighter future."

I realize he brought a championship to CLE so they at least have something to celebrate, but ditching them twice for better teams seems a little much. At least going to LA provides him an entirely different excuse - regardless of how good the supporting cast he brings with them.

I agree, leaving for a team like Philly would be another gut punch.

Houston probably would be seen as a KD b!tch move, but at least LeBron has won with two different teams and nobody should question his ability to lead. Still don’t see how it’s feasible without losing Capela.

Lakers bring the glamour and (even more) fame. Surely he will get a good cast around him to be competitive out there. Makes the most sense to me and he can handpick his running mate and look for another via trade. Plenty of vet ring chasers will surely flock there.

It would be admirable if he went down with the ship and stayed in Cleveland. I think there is too much pressure on him to win if he leaves and will look terrible if a player of his stature chases rings and doesn’t actually win more. He can lower expectations in Cleveland and maybe they can pick up some other guys to try it from a different angle. What they did to their roster in the last 9 months has been tragic.
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: liam on May 17, 2018, 11:29:52 AM
I wish there was an option for: Who cares. The Celtics will be the top team in the East. Where LeBron goes is irrelevant.
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: Phantom255x on May 17, 2018, 11:57:07 AM
I think it's either he stays in Cleveland, goes to Houston, or goes to Philly.

I think Paul George and Kawhi Leonard are the wild cards here.

If either PHI or LAL are able to trade for Kawhi, then that may lure Lebron to that team. If LAL signs George, maybe Lebron decides to go there to team up with George, Ingram, Kuzma, Ball (or LAL gets creative and also ships some young talent to acquire Leonard). The reason why Philly and LA are talked about the most as destinations for Lebron is not only the big markets and young talent, but also because they are some of the only teams out there who actually can just sign Lebron to a max outright (with cap space) and they have the assets to pull off another trade for a star if needed.

You can't say that about Houston or San Antonio, who would have to get creative and probably work sign and trades to acquire Lebron. Also, you'd have to be certain that the team you have in place (w/Lebron) is good enough to beat Golden State since there's probably no other avenue to add another big piece considering cap restraints and such. But I think they would be (San Antonio or Houston)

That said, I think if HOU loses in 5 or 6 to GSW, maybe Harden and CP3 (Lebron's good friend) convince him he's the "missing piece". It may mean HOU loses Capela and a few of their role players though to fit Lebron in with the cap space and to work a sign and trade out (also because CP3 is owed a max extension this summer).

New York COULD be a DARK HORSE here though. If they trade Ntilikina, #9 + salary and another future asset for Kawhi (who has NYK as a big market team he'd be willing to go to), then maybe Lebron follows? Lebron-Leonard-Porzingis Big 3, although KP's injury might hurt New York's pursuit unfortunately.

Ultimately, I think it's Cleveland (he stays), Houston or Philadelphia. I understand Lakers as an "ideal" destination, but I truthfully don't think Lebron realistically sees them as a contender or becoming one for a while, even if George joins. Plus, for the most part he'd be in Kobe's shadow there. Not saying it's a given he doesn't go LAL, but I don't think it's as likely as people think.
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: celticinorlando on May 17, 2018, 12:36:45 PM
Lakers. One last run and then he sets up his life in Hollywood much like Kobe
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: footey on May 17, 2018, 12:47:57 PM
I think it's either he stays in Cleveland, goes to Houston, or goes to Philly.

I think Paul George and Kawhi Leonard are the wild cards here.

If either PHI or LAL are able to trade for Kawhi, then that may lure Lebron to that team. If LAL signs George, maybe Lebron decides to go there to team up with George, Ingram, Kuzma, Ball (or LAL gets creative and also ships some young talent to acquire Leonard). The reason why Philly and LA are talked about the most as destinations for Lebron is not only the big markets and young talent, but also because they are some of the only teams out there who actually can just sign Lebron to a max outright (with cap space) and they have the assets to pull off another trade for a star if needed.

You can't say that about Houston or San Antonio, who would have to get creative and probably work sign and trades to acquire Lebron. Also, you'd have to be certain that the team you have in place (w/Lebron) is good enough to beat Golden State since there's probably no other avenue to add another big piece considering cap restraints and such. But I think they would be (San Antonio or Houston)

That said, I think if HOU loses in 5 or 6 to GSW, maybe Harden and CP3 (Lebron's good friend) convince him he's the "missing piece". It may mean HOU loses Capela and a few of their role players though to fit Lebron in with the cap space and to work a sign and trade out (also because CP3 is owed a max extension this summer).

New York COULD be a DARK HORSE here though. If they trade Ntilikina, #9 + salary and another future asset for Kawhi (who has NYK as a big market team he'd be willing to go to), then maybe Lebron follows? Lebron-Leonard-Porzingis Big 3, although KP's injury might hurt New York's pursuit unfortunately.

Ultimately, I think it's Cleveland (he stays), Houston or Philadelphia. I understand Lakers as an "ideal" destination, but I truthfully don't think Lebron realistically sees them as a contender or becoming one for a while, even if George joins. Plus, for the most part he'd be in Kobe's shadow there. Not saying it's a given he doesn't go LAL, but I don't think it's as likely as people think.

Have strong doubts Lebron would want to team up with Harden.  Just don't see the fit at all.
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: slamtheking on May 17, 2018, 01:11:19 PM
Why isn't Hell an option?
Beat me to it.  TP
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: SHAQATTACK on May 17, 2018, 01:13:27 PM
See how close Houston is to GS ....Lakers are not really ready to compete ,  it might take too long for Lebron to get the team to a true title level of play....plus who handles the ball...Lebron initiates 75% of the offense , what is LONZO gonna do?   Ball and Simmons are not good shooters , by the time they can shoot , Lebron will be 50 years old.

Are they there ?    Would just PG3 make the difference or will it take Leonard or James to even the score .

I expect all the major free agents and their agants are watching how GS Houston plays out.


The Celtics have a prime Irving and Hayward coming back ....Danny can just sit and waych
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: PAOBoston on May 17, 2018, 01:17:49 PM
He's going to Houston. Makes most sense to me. I don't think he wants to babysit or tutor any young players.
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: celticsclay on May 17, 2018, 01:37:22 PM
I don't think people give enough thought to the idea that Embiid and Simmons might not want him on the team. Embiid's comments about them liking the team they already have and their time being now sure read that to me. Both of those guys are extremely confident with big egos. They, and anyone with a pulse, can see that Lebron really sucks the entire air out of a room (it is the main reason Kyrie is on our roster).

 If Lebron were to go there and they won one championship before he turned 35 Embiid and Simmons would get next to no credit and the "process" would be cheapened for them (at least in the terms of casual fans and the media and some of their own fans). I also think seeing how great Tatum, Brown and Rozier are, the east is not going to be viewed as the easy path to the finals it once was when we add Kyrie and Hayward and further development from those guys. Most people feel we could actually give Golden State a run with all those guys healthy. Also while I am not suggesting that the Warriors will stop being a juggernaut the next few years they are slipping a tiny bit with the aging out of their bench and role players. Iggy was a great player for them during the titles and finals run and he is certainly calcifying before our eyes (career low in just about every category). Livingston is also in decline and West is going to be 38 if he does not retire. They may get slight boosts from Bell or Looney but I kind of doubt those guys are elite role players like the aftermentioned players have been by next season. These things may seem insignificant but they matter in a series if both teams are very evenly matched.

I don't think many people realize this, but there is a legitmate chance we enter next season as co-favorites to win the title with golden state depending on how the rest of this series goes and the the potential finals matchup. The only way Lebron could really assure himself of being a clear title favorite would be to join the Rockets or Golden State (both of whom are obviously in the west).
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: BringToughnessBack on May 17, 2018, 01:54:04 PM
My coworkers in Ohio 100 percent believe this is Lebron's last Cleveland hurrah. No doubt in their minds at all. They also told me they are extremely worried how they will come out in the next game- They think his decision is a done deal and no way he returns though. Maybe they are just preparing for the worst so it does not hurt as much or maybe they truly see the writing on the wall.

Where does he go? Rockets, Lakers? Is there any chance he could figure out a way to make it work in the easier East with someone...Sixers are a strange mix but who knows if they somehow landed 2 big names, they would be set up similar to the Celtics- George/Lebron and Embiid and Simmons would be a tough out for sure or maybe they do a trade for Leonard and match with Lebron and Simmons and Embiid..tough but it is Philly and it might not be hollywood enough for him.

Sometimes I wonder if the Lakers have been waiting for this opportunity for a long time....maybe they do flip youth to the Spurs, get Leonard, sign Lebron and find a way to squeeze Cousins into that mix(maybe a sign and trade with Kuzma going out in a package). Is Lebron, Cousins, Leonard and Ball enough to get to the WCF? Maybe it is...Or maybe a George/Lebron pairing with a trade for another star is another option....same scenarios as well.
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: Phantom255x on May 17, 2018, 03:59:48 PM
I think it's either he stays in Cleveland, goes to Houston, or goes to Philly.

I think Paul George and Kawhi Leonard are the wild cards here.

If either PHI or LAL are able to trade for Kawhi, then that may lure Lebron to that team. If LAL signs George, maybe Lebron decides to go there to team up with George, Ingram, Kuzma, Ball (or LAL gets creative and also ships some young talent to acquire Leonard). The reason why Philly and LA are talked about the most as destinations for Lebron is not only the big markets and young talent, but also because they are some of the only teams out there who actually can just sign Lebron to a max outright (with cap space) and they have the assets to pull off another trade for a star if needed.

You can't say that about Houston or San Antonio, who would have to get creative and probably work sign and trades to acquire Lebron. Also, you'd have to be certain that the team you have in place (w/Lebron) is good enough to beat Golden State since there's probably no other avenue to add another big piece considering cap restraints and such. But I think they would be (San Antonio or Houston)

That said, I think if HOU loses in 5 or 6 to GSW, maybe Harden and CP3 (Lebron's good friend) convince him he's the "missing piece". It may mean HOU loses Capela and a few of their role players though to fit Lebron in with the cap space and to work a sign and trade out (also because CP3 is owed a max extension this summer).

New York COULD be a DARK HORSE here though. If they trade Ntilikina, #9 + salary and another future asset for Kawhi (who has NYK as a big market team he'd be willing to go to), then maybe Lebron follows? Lebron-Leonard-Porzingis Big 3, although KP's injury might hurt New York's pursuit unfortunately.

Ultimately, I think it's Cleveland (he stays), Houston or Philadelphia. I understand Lakers as an "ideal" destination, but I truthfully don't think Lebron realistically sees them as a contender or becoming one for a while, even if George joins. Plus, for the most part he'd be in Kobe's shadow there. Not saying it's a given he doesn't go LAL, but I don't think it's as likely as people think.

Have strong doubts Lebron would want to team up with Harden.  Just don't see the fit at all.

Maybe, but I also don't see the fit with Philly either.

Like, the difference is, when Wade and Kyrie (among others) settled for a "lesser" role and played more off-ball, they were still effective primarily because they could facilitate AND shoot well. Simmons has no jump shot... kind of a big deal especially for the near future if you're Lebron (doubt Simmons magically finds it by next season all of a sudden).
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: JSD on May 18, 2018, 04:58:13 AM
Less votes on this than i thought there would be.
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: JSD on May 18, 2018, 05:05:13 AM
Would LeBron consider taking a massive discount and playing for the Warriors?

Dray
Bron
Durant
Klay
Steph
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: Csfan1984 on May 18, 2018, 05:19:03 AM
Warriors are my biggest fear. Lakers would be another if Lakers traded everything they had + two first for Davis then signed LeBron and PG. Ouch
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: gouki88 on May 18, 2018, 05:22:23 AM
Would LeBron consider taking a massive discount and playing for the Warriors?

Dray
Bron
Durant
Klay
Steph
I don’t think so. Considering what teaming up with the team he couldn’t beat did to KD, I can’t see LeBron doing that to his legacy. People wouldn’t include him in their top 5 all-time out of pure spite.

He initiated the whole moving to a team with superstar buddies, but if he did this he would bury his legacy. More likely he goes to LA, NYK or Houston imo
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: scaryjerry on May 18, 2018, 06:21:22 AM
Houston.
Why would LeBron want to play with Embiid and Simmons...just not a fit and frankly the celtics exposed how much both need to grow as players pretty tremendously
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: Eja117 on May 18, 2018, 07:34:46 AM
Fishing
Will he be able to find three all stars to help him catch a fish?
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: Phantom255x on May 18, 2018, 09:24:58 AM
Stephen A. Smith on First Take yesterday said that really, as long as Lebron doesn't sign with Boston or Golden State this off season, then his legacy is basically intact wherever he signs.

I disagree.

If he goes to Philadelphia to team up with Simmons, Embiid (maybe Kawhi, too), I think most will look at it as him quitting on a team (again) and joining another super team. Same with Houston, although I don't think Houston is as likely as most people think due to the cap. One, do you really think Morey is paying a big luxury tax for years to come? Remember, HOU still has to pay CP3 AND Capela this summer. Will be difficult.

I like the idea of Lebron in San Antonio. Although they have cap issues to deal with too, but maybe a sign and trade involving Aldridge and some salary + picks to CLE gets Lebron to San Antonio?
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: footey on May 18, 2018, 09:39:23 AM
Lebron may consider there only if Kawhi stays.
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: Phantom255x on May 18, 2018, 09:40:50 AM
Lebron may consider there only if Kawhi stays.

It's something I think the Spurs could sell Kawhi on though.

I mean, in that case I'd find it hard to leave if I'm Kawhi. A chance to play and contend for championships alongside Popovich and Lebron, all while getting a $219M super-max extension?

And if they find a way to keep Aldridge, even better! Though I imagine Aldridge is dealt in a sign-and-trade, OR flipped to another team looking to contend for multiple assets.
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: SHAQATTACK on May 18, 2018, 11:29:39 AM
even if Lebron beats the celtics , next year on Cavs they will,get worse .   8th pick only buys you so much star talent
Staying with the Cavs would only be a friendly jester.   

If he leaves , the quickest way to fianls would be Rockets , they play IsO ball anyway
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: blackbird on May 18, 2018, 11:50:44 AM
Outside the box possibilities - Utah or New Orleans.

But my vote is Knicks.
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: gouki88 on May 18, 2018, 11:52:58 AM
Outside the box possibilities - Utah or New Orleans.

But my vote is Knicks.
Can you imagine LeBron and Rondo together ;D what a clash
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: OHCeltic on May 19, 2018, 10:26:27 AM
Raptors
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: Fred Roberts on May 19, 2018, 10:58:56 AM
I picked the Knicks for no good reason other than being a winner here would create a new level of status for him. Porzingus, Noah's corpse, a couple younger wings and bigs .... and marketing opportunities galore. Just getting the Knicks back to the playoffs would create noise.

I like Indiana's cap situation though. PG or someone else could go there and move them up a notch. Good team.
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: nebist on May 19, 2018, 11:38:39 AM
It’s hard to tell. I’d put the Rockets and Sixers as most likely. Rockets as they are a ready made contender with his good friend Paul in house. Sixers have easiest path to acquire him, and he stays in the East with Celts as only legit contender for a Finals appearance.

Lakers would be the dark horse, but they’d need a series of moves/signings to fall perfectly for them, which seems less likely.
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: playdream on May 19, 2018, 11:52:32 AM
Stephen A. Smith on First Take yesterday said that really, as long as Lebron doesn't sign with Boston or Golden State this off season, then his legacy is basically intact wherever he signs.

I disagree.

If he goes to Philadelphia to team up with Simmons, Embiid (maybe Kawhi, too), I think most will look at it as him quitting on a team (again) and joining another super team. Same with Houston, although I don't think Houston is as likely as most people think due to the cap. One, do you really think Morey is paying a big luxury tax for years to come? Remember, HOU still has to pay CP3 AND Capela this summer. Will be difficult.

I like the idea of Lebron in San Antonio. Although they have cap issues to deal with too, but maybe a sign and trade involving Aldridge and some salary + picks to CLE gets Lebron to San Antonio?
Lebron doesn't care this super team bash, he only cares the ring, those dick riders will take care of the rest

Rocket is a much better fit versus hiding in the east AKA Philly, or Celtics if he wants to beat Durant in that shameless catergory
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: blackbird on May 19, 2018, 12:57:46 PM
What about back to Miami? I bet Riley could pull it off again.
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: Phantom255x on May 19, 2018, 01:14:11 PM
Stephen A. Smith on First Take yesterday said that really, as long as Lebron doesn't sign with Boston or Golden State this off season, then his legacy is basically intact wherever he signs.

I disagree.

If he goes to Philadelphia to team up with Simmons, Embiid (maybe Kawhi, too), I think most will look at it as him quitting on a team (again) and joining another super team. Same with Houston, although I don't think Houston is as likely as most people think due to the cap. One, do you really think Morey is paying a big luxury tax for years to come? Remember, HOU still has to pay CP3 AND Capela this summer. Will be difficult.

I like the idea of Lebron in San Antonio. Although they have cap issues to deal with too, but maybe a sign and trade involving Aldridge and some salary + picks to CLE gets Lebron to San Antonio?
Lebron doesn't care this super team bash, he only cares the ring, those dick riders will take care of the rest

Rocket is a much better fit versus hiding in the east AKA Philly, or Celtics if he wants to beat Durant in that shameless catergory

Problem is, there's no way we can afford him UNLESS he somehow is willing to play for the MLE (9M). I just don't think it's worth a big sign and trade either that will definitely include current core guys and risers.

What about back to Miami? I bet Riley could pull it off again.

Like in the Hayward FA negotiations last year, I consider Miami the dark horse here as well. It's certainly possible. But Lebron is only joining IF Miami have some plan to acquire another star. That's kind of been the mojo lately (joins Miami, teams with Wade and they add Bosh. Then he returns to CLE, teams with Irving and they add Love).

Who does Miami currently have that entices Lebron? A 36 year old Wade? Olynyk? Whiteside? And what star can they possibly trade for to entice Lebron.
Title: Re: Poll: Where Does LeBron James go this Off-season?
Post by: cman88 on May 21, 2018, 07:46:14 AM
I dont view philly as a realistic landing spot. Lebrons teams are all about him pounding the ball into the ground and creating for others/scoring with a bunch of 3 point shooters around.


Simmons cant shoot at all...and as we saw is pretty useless without the ball in his hands...and Embiid is a back to the basket center. They would have to drastically reshape that team to fit lebrons image. Trade simmons for another star, and make Embiid happy with being Chris bosh/Kevin love and sit at the 3 point line.

Houston on the other hand is perfect for him. 2 other stars(and not young/green stars) and TONS of 3 point shooters. And you add Lebron to Houston and that just might close the gap with golden state in the west.