LeBron James has done it again.
The NBA's best player is going through the free-agent process for the second time, and just like the first, is sure to cause some deeply hurt feelings with what is being called his "Decision 2.0."
LeBron James to meet with Heat president Pat Riley about Riley's attempts to resurrect team
The question is, who will be James' victim: the Cleveland Cavaliers (again?), Miami Heat teammate Dwyane Wade or both?
CBSSports.com is reporting that James' exploration of the Cavaliers is being fueled by his agent, Rich Paul, who is from Ohio. But a move to his former team now makes a lot more sense for James than it did for him to stay in 2010.
Miami Heat's fate in Chris Bosh's hands?
The Cavaliers just sewed up budding superstar Kyrie Irving for the next five years. They have the No. 1 pick in the 2014 NBA draft in guard Andrew Wiggins arriving.
And let's not forget that they also have the No. 1 pick in the 2013 draft in Anthony Bennett, who is considered a huge bust after averaging just 4.2 points and 3.0 rebounds as a rookie. But with James, Irving and Wiggins on the team - not to mention the ability to learn from LeBron about what it takes to be great - almost all the pressure Bennett faced last season would be off him in 2014-15.
According to CBSSports.com, the team potentially could have three first-round picks in 2015 as well.
James would not be fool-hardy enough to leave the Cavaliers at the altar a second time, would he?
The Heat? Team president Pat Riley signed free agent forward Danny Granger, who was a budding star in the league a few years ago with the Indiana Pacers before injuries have dragged him down the last two seasons.
But they also have a rapidly aging Wade, who looked to be a shell of the 2006 version of Wade, who teamed with Shaquille O'Neal for an NBA championship.
Yet, Wade opted out of his own contract with the Heat when the free agency period began. He was due $42 million over the next two years. Reports have indicated that the Heat intend to ensure he doesn't lose any money, and could offer him a four-year deal worth as much as $60 million.
Anybody who believes that Wade will still be playing in four years is subject to drug-testing.
But it was Wade who played an integral role in James winding up in Miami, playing in four NBA Finals and winning two championship rings. Shouldn't James take into account what Wade has done and how much money he could be giving up to allow the King to keep his talents at South Beach?
Whichever place he decides, it will be the best for LeBron James and not anyone else.
Where will LeBron James sign? Comment below or tell us @SportsWN.
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