CelticsStrong
Around the League => Around the NBA => Topic started by: cman88 on May 06, 2018, 11:58:16 AM
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Its impressive what he has been doing these playoffs as an individual player. but you have to think at some point the Cavs will meet the buzzsaw that is the west and get decimated.
no cap space, and very little capital to improve their team unless they want to trade K.love/brooklyn pick.
I doubt lebron wants to have to play 40minutes per game at 34 and have to score in the 40+ every night to win next year.
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If he makes it to the finals with this atrocious squad, I don't think so. He'll probably flip the BKN pick to get more talent here.
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Yeah the Final chapter will be with the Lakers or the Knicks. LeBron will began transitioning to life after basketball in his next stop, even with 5-8 years left in the league.
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Been thinking Lakers for awhile now.
First off, it’s LA. They are a perfect match. They will give him the largest ever contract for a guy that age. He wants to set the bar for what an older player can make, hence why they had the age raised to 38 for a max contract.
But then what? I still think it’s Chris Paul that joins him.
And then what do the Lakers get for Lonzo? You know they won’t deal with Lavar, so he’s gone. Can they make two deals using Ball, Ingram, Kuzma, and/or picks to get TWO stars? Not sure if/what they can do regarding a S&T using Randle (or even IT), but they would obviously explore that if it’s possible.
This is all under the assumption the Rockets or Cavs don’t win it all this year.
The only other team that would make sense from a legacy standpoint is the Knicks, as he would actually be a basketball God if he won them a title. They are just so far from being able to put anything good around him it doesn’t make it realistic.
And then there is Cleveland. Maybe he decides that’s where his legacy always was. That’s his city. They clearly aren’t afraid to make drastic changes and we may see them move the pick to get a star.
I think he needs more championships if he wants to realistically challenge Jordan for the GOAT talk. Does running off yet again to form another super team get him enough credit? Can he actually win again in Cleveland? I think he honestly still hasn’t made up his mind and how this season plays out will definitely be the deciding factor.
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If the Celtics beat him he should really come to us on a min, he has earned a ton of salary anyways, while he gets a couple of rings at least.
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Been thinking Lakers for awhile now.
First off, it’s LA. They are a perfect match. They will give him the largest ever contract for a guy that age. He wants to set the bar for what an older player can make, hence why they had the age raised to 38 for a max contract.
But then what? I still think it’s Chris Paul that joins him.
And then what do the Lakers get for Lonzo? You know they won’t deal with Lavar, so he’s gone. Can they make two deals using Ball, Ingram, Kuzma, and/or picks to get TWO stars? Not sure if/what they can do regarding a S&T using Randle (or even IT), but they would obviously explore that if it’s possible.
This is all under the assumption the Rockets or Cavs don’t win it all this year.
The only other team that would make sense from a legacy standpoint is the Knicks, as he would actually be a basketball God if he won them a title. They are just so far from being able to put anything good around him it doesn’t make it realistic.
And then there is Cleveland. Maybe he decides that’s where his legacy always was. That’s his city. They clearly aren’t afraid to make drastic changes and we may see them move the pick to get a star.
I think he needs more championships if he wants to realistically challenge Jordan for the GOAT talk. Does running off yet again to form another super team get him enough credit? Can he actually win again in Cleveland? I think he honestly still hasn’t made up his mind and how this season plays out will definitely be the deciding factor.
Why would CP3 leave Houston?
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Been thinking Lakers for awhile now.
First off, it’s LA. They are a perfect match. They will give him the largest ever contract for a guy that age. He wants to set the bar for what an older player can make, hence why they had the age raised to 38 for a max contract.
But then what? I still think it’s Chris Paul that joins him.
And then what do the Lakers get for Lonzo? You know they won’t deal with Lavar, so he’s gone. Can they make two deals using Ball, Ingram, Kuzma, and/or picks to get TWO stars? Not sure if/what they can do regarding a S&T using Randle (or even IT), but they would obviously explore that if it’s possible.
This is all under the assumption the Rockets or Cavs don’t win it all this year.
The only other team that would make sense from a legacy standpoint is the Knicks, as he would actually be a basketball God if he won them a title. They are just so far from being able to put anything good around him it doesn’t make it realistic.
And then there is Cleveland. Maybe he decides that’s where his legacy always was. That’s his city. They clearly aren’t afraid to make drastic changes and we may see them move the pick to get a star.
I think he needs more championships if he wants to realistically challenge Jordan for the GOAT talk. Does running off yet again to form another super team get him enough credit? Can he actually win again in Cleveland? I think he honestly still hasn’t made up his mind and how this season plays out will definitely be the deciding factor.
Why would CP3 leave Houston?
I think there’s an assumption floating around that Golden State creams em. Don’t think it’s a fair assumption
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If he makes it to the finals with this atrocious squad, I don't think so. He'll probably flip the BKN pick to get more talent here.
Amazing playoffs by LBJ so far. Hats off.
Regarding roster.
Guys LBJ wanted are there,
guys he didn't are not there.
Except for KI, who wanted to leave him.
LBJ fans, take the bad with the good.
I think he leaves. He never could sell us a story where he is the GOAT with just 3 chips in 20 years (15% of the total, meh). He isn't winning it in Cleveland and I think he would like to be considered as the one.
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If he wants to win another championship in his career, yeah.
Kevin Love is not going to be enough to win another title.
At the same time, I don't get the Lakers theory. I think LeBron wants to win more titles. He's obviously smart enough to recognize that his chance of winning titles is greater if he plays in the conference where his ability to make it to the Finals has been continuously unchallenged.
If he plays in the West, he'll need to beat the Warriors just to make the Finals, in all likelihood. Why make his path to another title more difficult?
Despite this, I don't know if there are any really good options in the East. The Sixers don't seem like a great fit, but it may be his best option.
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Last time he left for MIA which had two established stars, if he leaves now it will be for a similarly proven roster. Philly and LAL only have a chance if they can add another all star calibre player. Otherwise I don't see what makes them better than what Lebron already has in Cleveland.
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I would leave if I were him. He brought CLE their ring. They couldn't figure out how to put a team together that would consistently compete. Blame it on their owner, their GM, and Lebron. Lebron the player doesn't deserve to play for Lebron GM. He deserves a team that actually has a seasoned coach and management team.
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I think it's a near certainty he leaves, if for no other reason that the earth in Cleveland has now been fully scorched and that team has no path to get better.
As I'm watching this BOS-PHI series, I wonder if the Sixers are really a possibility. Can you imagine Lebron and Simmons on the floor together? That sounds like a total mess. And if you're Lebron, do you want to spend the last few years of your career surrounded by young players?
The problem is, I'm not sure the Lakers situation is that much better.
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He's going to LA, imo. His next move is about more than basketball.
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I hate to say it, because I really don’t want it to happen, but I think Philly is the most likely scenario. He’s gotta know at this point that being in the East is pretty much a guaranteed walk to the conference finals, and that Philly team is young and full of great talent and shooters that could thrive around him. All they really lack is an established veteran star, which he would give them (and he’d do wonders for Simmons and Embiid). A healthy Celtics with Kyrie vs. Sixers with LeBron would be the NBA’s dream ECF matchup too.
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The injury-plagued Celts have a chance to beat them this year. It's hard to imagine him looking ahead and deciding that he can carry that shell of a Cavs team to any more Finals.
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He's going to LA, imo. His next move is about more than basketball.
Are you hinting the "LeBron to Lebronto" move? ;D
It even, sort of, more than rhymes with itself.
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He's going to LA, imo. His next move is about more than basketball.
People keep saying that, but James has said countless times he wants to be known as the greatest ever and catch Jordan, I just can't see him all of a sudden reversing course and making his next move not be about basketball and catching Jordan. Now if the Cavs pull off a miracle and win this year, especially if they somehow beat Golden State, then you will see a ground swell of support for him as the GOAT and that might actually allow him to go to a place like LA.
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If Cleveland gets back to the NBA finals—and let’s face it, there’s a good chance of that happening—I think he’ll stay in CLE. They can package Brooklyn pick for a good vet and sign a couple of 3 point sharp shooters like Redick or Belinelli. Life is good.
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I still don't see how he leaves Cleveland again and it ends well? ???
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I have him in this order
Lakers
Cleveland
Clippers
Knicks
he has painted himself into a corner with his divaness , and must controll most aspects of the club and has little respect for authority ...see him argue every other play call.....he wants to be the ref too.
This won't fly with many of the FO s or The " Real" coaches who are actually there for a basketball purpose , to coach , not baby sit like Doc Rivers and Spo, i think the he Lakers have enough brown nosers to get the job done and place him on a he throne he feels he deserves., Ball will submit . Plus all of he money in NYC and LA is as big a attaaction as anything . Pebron needs now billion to buy a club , he is hungry for money too reach his goal of ownership.
Lakers and IKnicks hire and fire coaches like clock work , they can affrd ,to hand out lots of bad contracts ,hire the wrong people , players etc .
Rockets won't take him . He would kill what they have made. He is not a sharer , like KD . D Antoni runs th ship with the GM . They won't allow Lebron over throw their authority .
Lebrons pairing are difficult , because he demands to rn the show , you must submit , IT would not , could be hard to find anther Kyrie , young star to totally submit to Lewhine s ego.
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Would it be unreasonable to go West being more worried about Boston and philly starting in two years than GS? Maybe crazy maybe not.
I think he goes to LA but that includes PG signing there AND a trade of Ingram ball and parts for a third star.
What about New Orleans? So they have or Can they create room? Lebron AD rondo and Jrue with the addition of lebron shooters would be pretty awesome.
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If Cleveland gets back to the NBA finals—and let’s face it, there’s a good chance of that happening—I think he’ll stay in CLE. They can package Brooklyn pick for a good vet and sign a couple of 3 point sharp shooters like Redick or Belinelli. Life is good.
What if they're swept or convincingly beaten in five like last year?
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He's going to LA, imo. His next move is about more than basketball.
People keep saying that, but James has said countless times he wants to be known as the greatest ever and catch Jordan, I just can't see him all of a sudden reversing course and making his next move not be about basketball and catching Jordan. Now if the Cavs pull off a miracle and win this year, especially if they somehow beat Golden State, then you will see a ground swell of support for him as the GOAT and that might actually allow him to go to a place like LA.
If he is truly chasing Jordan, then he should seek a baseball squad as MJ did after 3rd ring.
Joking aside.
I believe that he will go somewhere where he has a lot of the control over franchise decisions.
Something he couldn't do with the Heat and their excellent existing leadership.
So exclude the "smart teams" Spurs, Jazz, Celtics...
And something he tried and unfortunately for him succeeded in Cleveland. (the only, but IMO just 1 chip in 11 (12) years there.)
It led to Kyrie exit and this crappy team, that he, being a hometown kid and a true leader, wants to leave now.
Looking in a rearview mirror, Cleveland's moves at the deadline would suggest he is going to L.A. The pick that Cleveland gave and the salary relief they assured to them, made the Lakers even bigger players in the free agency. It feels like a one-sided, wink-wink move.
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If Cleveland gets back to the NBA finals—and let’s face it, there’s a good chance of that happening—I think he’ll stay in CLE. They can package Brooklyn pick for a good vet and sign a couple of 3 point sharp shooters like Redick or Belinelli. Life is good.
What if they're swept or convincingly beaten in five like last year?
I think Lebron's legacy has more meaning if he is able to carry a team on his back to the NBA finals toward the end of his career, rather than getting together with other talent to form another super team which has no guaranty of taking down Warriors. He has won 3 championships. If he wins one or two more by ganging up with some stars, not sure his legacy is really helped by that.
And Lebron is all about his legacy.
I also think he has a genuine affection for the fans of Cleveland, for obvious reasons. That's why he went back there.
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He's going to LA, imo. His next move is about more than basketball.
People keep saying that, but James has said countless times he wants to be known as the greatest ever and catch Jordan, I just can't see him all of a sudden reversing course and making his next move not be about basketball and catching Jordan. Now if the Cavs pull off a miracle and win this year, especially if they somehow beat Golden State, then you will see a ground swell of support for him as the GOAT and that might actually allow him to go to a place like LA.
Two problems with that concept, Lebron: (1) even if you win another 3 titles, it will be by forming another Miami type pact, and that will taint/asterisk your accomplishment next to Jordan, who did his 6 'chips on a home grown, organic basis; and (2) If winning the most championships is the goal to be considered all time greatest, you need 8 more, bro.
Just ask Bill Russell.
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He's going to LA, imo. His next move is about more than basketball.
People keep saying that, but James has said countless times he wants to be known as the greatest ever and catch Jordan, I just can't see him all of a sudden reversing course and making his next move not be about basketball and catching Jordan. Now if the Cavs pull off a miracle and win this year, especially if they somehow beat Golden State, then you will see a ground swell of support for him as the GOAT and that might actually allow him to go to a place like LA.
Two problems with that concept, Lebron: (1) even if you win another 3 titles, it will be by forming another Miami type pact, and that will taint/asterisk your accomplishment next to Jordan, who did his 6 'chips on a home grown, organic basis; and (2) If winning the most championships is the goal to be considered all time greatest, you need 8 more, bro.
Just ask Bill Russell.
He doesn't have to win the most titles to be considered the GOAT though because statistically he will be the greatest player of all time (he easily could end up as the all time leading scorer, top 10 in assists and steals, top 30 in rebounds - plus the playoff leader in basically everything). If he ends up with something like 5 titles (say 5-7 in Finals), plus all of the stats, I think he ends up pretty widely regarded as the best ever especially if the Cavs somehow manage to beat Golden State this year.
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The Lakers make some sense to me since I think LeBron knows he won't catch up (and even less outperform) Jordan in rings. But even if they were to assemble a good/very good team around him, I have a hard time thinking he would play there, since he would be in Kobe, Magic, and other Lakers greats' shadows.
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I think in a vacuum lebron would leave for a better situation. But at SOME point, even he has to say enough is enough. I think this team jumping takes away from him legacy and IF he cares about that at all, he should (and may) stay home.
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He's going to LA, imo. His next move is about more than basketball.
People keep saying that, but James has said countless times he wants to be known as the greatest ever and catch Jordan, I just can't see him all of a sudden reversing course and making his next move not be about basketball and catching Jordan. Now if the Cavs pull off a miracle and win this year, especially if they somehow beat Golden State, then you will see a ground swell of support for him as the GOAT and that might actually allow him to go to a place like LA.
Two problems with that concept, Lebron: (1) even if you win another 3 titles, it will be by forming another Miami type pact, and that will taint/asterisk your accomplishment next to Jordan, who did his 6 'chips on a home grown, organic basis; and (2) If winning the most championships is the goal to be considered all time greatest, you need 8 more, bro.
Just ask Bill Russell.
He doesn't have to win the most titles to be considered the GOAT though because statistically he will be the greatest player of all time (he easily could end up as the all time leading scorer, top 10 in assists and steals, top 30 in rebounds - plus the playoff leader in basically everything). If he ends up with something like 5 titles (say 5-7 in Finals), plus all of the stats, I think he ends up pretty widely regarded as the best ever especially if the Cavs somehow manage to beat Golden State this year.
The odds of LeBron winning 2 more titles and going from 68th all time in rebounding in the limited amount of time he has left are incredibly slim though.
As for the last bit, there is almost literally no chance that happens
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He's going to LA, imo. His next move is about more than basketball.
People keep saying that, but James has said countless times he wants to be known as the greatest ever and catch Jordan, I just can't see him all of a sudden reversing course and making his next move not be about basketball and catching Jordan. Now if the Cavs pull off a miracle and win this year, especially if they somehow beat Golden State, then you will see a ground swell of support for him as the GOAT and that might actually allow him to go to a place like LA.
Going to a team with a talented roster would only cement his legacy as a ring chaser. Winning multiple titles with this current CLE team and its garbage roster would accomplish that in some people's mind, but we all know they'll do well to beat the Celtics, much less the GSW. CLE is a dead end for him and he knows it.
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He is dying to own a team ..like Jordon ...part of his goal to be the greatest ever in ALL aspects of the NBA . He needs way more money . Billion is alot of millions.
Eventually if you ride a motorcycle long enough your luck runs out .
He been riding a long time.
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He's going to LA, imo. His next move is about more than basketball.
People keep saying that, but James has said countless times he wants to be known as the greatest ever and catch Jordan, I just can't see him all of a sudden reversing course and making his next move not be about basketball and catching Jordan. Now if the Cavs pull off a miracle and win this year, especially if they somehow beat Golden State, then you will see a ground swell of support for him as the GOAT and that might actually allow him to go to a place like LA.
Two problems with that concept, Lebron: (1) even if you win another 3 titles, it will be by forming another Miami type pact, and that will taint/asterisk your accomplishment next to Jordan, who did his 6 'chips on a home grown, organic basis; and (2) If winning the most championships is the goal to be considered all time greatest, you need 8 more, bro.
Just ask Bill Russell.
He doesn't have to win the most titles to be considered the GOAT though because statistically he will be the greatest player of all time (he easily could end up as the all time leading scorer, top 10 in assists and steals, top 30 in rebounds - plus the playoff leader in basically everything). If he ends up with something like 5 titles (say 5-7 in Finals), plus all of the stats, I think he ends up pretty widely regarded as the best ever especially if the Cavs somehow manage to beat Golden State this year.
The odds of LeBron winning 2 more titles and going from 68th all time in rebounding in the limited amount of time he has left are incredibly slim though.
As for the last bit, there is almost literally no chance that happens
I agree, I don't see how they beat Golden State. That said, I could absolutely see Lebron ending up right around 25th all time in rebounding (though he wouldn't stay there all that long). He will have to play another 6 or 7 years though, but to get the points he will need probably 5 seasons anyway (and I do think he sticks around long enough to get the points). If he plays that long, he also could end up passing Kidd for 2nd all time in assists (that also depends on Chris Paul and where he ends up), but either way he should be no worse than 4th all time assists (should only be behind Stockton, Kidd, and maybe Paul).
And he doesn't necessarily have to be his team's best player to get credit for titles. I mean Kobe gets credit for 5 titles, when he clearly was behind Shaq for the first 3. He can't be a bit role player on the bench, but he doesn't have to be the unquestioned leader either.
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He's going to LA, imo. His next move is about more than basketball.
People keep saying that, but James has said countless times he wants to be known as the greatest ever and catch Jordan, I just can't see him all of a sudden reversing course and making his next move not be about basketball and catching Jordan. Now if the Cavs pull off a miracle and win this year, especially if they somehow beat Golden State, then you will see a ground swell of support for him as the GOAT and that might actually allow him to go to a place like LA.
Two problems with that concept, Lebron: (1) even if you win another 3 titles, it will be by forming another Miami type pact, and that will taint/asterisk your accomplishment next to Jordan, who did his 6 'chips on a home grown, organic basis; and (2) If winning the most championships is the goal to be considered all time greatest, you need 8 more, bro.
Just ask Bill Russell.
He doesn't have to win the most titles to be considered the GOAT though because statistically he will be the greatest player of all time (he easily could end up as the all time leading scorer, top 10 in assists and steals, top 30 in rebounds - plus the playoff leader in basically everything). If he ends up with something like 5 titles (say 5-7 in Finals), plus all of the stats, I think he ends up pretty widely regarded as the best ever especially if the Cavs somehow manage to beat Golden State this year.
The odds of LeBron winning 2 more titles and going from 68th all time in rebounding in the limited amount of time he has left are incredibly slim though.
As for the last bit, there is almost literally no chance that happens
I agree, I don't see how they beat Golden State. That said, I could absolutely see Lebron ending up right around 25th all time in rebounding (though he wouldn't stay there all that long). He will have to play another 6 or 7 years though, but to get the points he will need probably 5 seasons anyway (and I do think he sticks around long enough to get the points). If he plays that long, he also could end up passing Kidd for 2nd all time in assists (that also depends on Chris Paul and where he ends up), but either way he should be no worse than 4th all time assists (should only be behind Stockton, Kidd, and maybe Paul).
And he doesn't necessarily have to be his team's best player to get credit for titles. I mean Kobe gets credit for 5 titles, when he clearly was behind Shaq for the first 3. He can't be a bit role player on the bench, but he doesn't have to be the unquestioned leader either.
You started off comparing the Jordan standard then switched to Kobe. Nice.
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If LeBron heads west and the Celtics stay healthy, is there anyone who can prevent us from walking to the finals?
Mike
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Danny Ainge
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He's going to LA, imo. His next move is about more than basketball.
People keep saying that, but James has said countless times he wants to be known as the greatest ever and catch Jordan, I just can't see him all of a sudden reversing course and making his next move not be about basketball and catching Jordan. Now if the Cavs pull off a miracle and win this year, especially if they somehow beat Golden State, then you will see a ground swell of support for him as the GOAT and that might actually allow him to go to a place like LA.
Two problems with that concept, Lebron: (1) even if you win another 3 titles, it will be by forming another Miami type pact, and that will taint/asterisk your accomplishment next to Jordan, who did his 6 'chips on a home grown, organic basis; and (2) If winning the most championships is the goal to be considered all time greatest, you need 8 more, bro.
Just ask Bill Russell.
He doesn't have to win the most titles to be considered the GOAT though because statistically he will be the greatest player of all time (he easily could end up as the all time leading scorer, top 10 in assists and steals, top 30 in rebounds - plus the playoff leader in basically everything). If he ends up with something like 5 titles (say 5-7 in Finals), plus all of the stats, I think he ends up pretty widely regarded as the best ever especially if the Cavs somehow manage to beat Golden State this year.
The odds of LeBron winning 2 more titles and going from 68th all time in rebounding in the limited amount of time he has left are incredibly slim though.
As for the last bit, there is almost literally no chance that happens
I agree, I don't see how they beat Golden State. That said, I could absolutely see Lebron ending up right around 25th all time in rebounding (though he wouldn't stay there all that long). He will have to play another 6 or 7 years though, but to get the points he will need probably 5 seasons anyway (and I do think he sticks around long enough to get the points). If he plays that long, he also could end up passing Kidd for 2nd all time in assists (that also depends on Chris Paul and where he ends up), but either way he should be no worse than 4th all time assists (should only be behind Stockton, Kidd, and maybe Paul).
And he doesn't necessarily have to be his team's best player to get credit for titles. I mean Kobe gets credit for 5 titles, when he clearly was behind Shaq for the first 3. He can't be a bit role player on the bench, but he doesn't have to be the unquestioned leader either.
You started off comparing the Jordan standard then switched to Kobe. Nice.
I was merely saying that the fact that Kobe wasn't the #1 option on 3 of his 5 titles hasn't stopped people from saying Kobe has 5 to James' 3. As long as James is a meaningful contributor and wins a couple of more, I think he will end up being widely regarded as the best player ever (some will have him there even without the 2 extra titles, I just think a lot of those in the Jordan camp will be swayed if he manages a couple of more).
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He's going to LA, imo. His next move is about more than basketball.
People keep saying that, but James has said countless times he wants to be known as the greatest ever and catch Jordan, I just can't see him all of a sudden reversing course and making his next move not be about basketball and catching Jordan. Now if the Cavs pull off a miracle and win this year, especially if they somehow beat Golden State, then you will see a ground swell of support for him as the GOAT and that might actually allow him to go to a place like LA.
Two problems with that concept, Lebron: (1) even if you win another 3 titles, it will be by forming another Miami type pact, and that will taint/asterisk your accomplishment next to Jordan, who did his 6 'chips on a home grown, organic basis; and (2) If winning the most championships is the goal to be considered all time greatest, you need 8 more, bro.
Just ask Bill Russell.
He doesn't have to win the most titles to be considered the GOAT though because statistically he will be the greatest player of all time (he easily could end up as the all time leading scorer, top 10 in assists and steals, top 30 in rebounds - plus the playoff leader in basically everything). If he ends up with something like 5 titles (say 5-7 in Finals), plus all of the stats, I think he ends up pretty widely regarded as the best ever especially if the Cavs somehow manage to beat Golden State this year.
The odds of LeBron winning 2 more titles and going from 68th all time in rebounding in the limited amount of time he has left are incredibly slim though.
As for the last bit, there is almost literally no chance that happens
If it’s really legacy he is after, then keep in mind that he knows he won’t catch Jordan for rings (or Russell obviously). What he CAN do for notoriety is win with 3 different teams. Nobody’s done that and it could be argued it is harder, as well as validate him. So if it’s mainly legacy, I say he goes elsewhere.
That said, leaving Cleveland again could cause riots.
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I get that Clevland doesn't look that great right now, but there isnt a single obvious landing spot for him. Houston has the problem that there are already two ball dominant guys there, and they would have to sacrifice a ton of pieces to make the cap math work. Phili is interesting, but his style clashes with Simmons and there may not be enough shooting to maximize that team. If LeBron has the ball in his hands, what exactly does Simmons provide? Spurs would be interesting but they have Kawhi drama going down. Lakers are probably the bets bet but even if you add him and George does that team compete with GSW? No. You'd need a third, big time star. maybe thats Kawhi but no guarantee.
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After yesterday I am 100% convinced that LeBron is leaving Cleveland regardless of whether or not the Cavs advance to the NBA Finals. Did anyone else read the ESPN article about LeBron spending more time "walking" than any other NBA player? At 33 years old he is not capable of being an entire offense without sacrificing the majority of his defensive effort. LeBron is resting on the court out of necessity. I doubt he will enjoy spending the rest of his career like this.
LeBron should be in the top 10 all-time for minutes played by the end of next season. Nearly the entire top 10 is composed of Centers and traditional Power Forwards. The only guards and wings are Jason Kidd, Kobe Bryant, and John Stockton. None of those three were performing anywhere near LeBron's level at this point in their career.
The blame for this predicament falls 100% on his shoulders. This is what he gets for trying to control an entire franchise for the past 4 seasons.
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If rockets get destroyed , the Lebron to Rockets ......this is what Bron is watching ....wants to play with CP3 . Joining Lonzo might be a multi year deal just to make finals , he is running out of years , PG3 is not beating GS, Rockets or Celtics
If Rockets win Title , Then Bron to Lakers or he just stays in Clevland .
Not seeing Bron and Simmons together , will mess up Simmons progress into his own self.
Bron to Knicks is just him wanting out of Cleveland period .
he has maybe 2 great years , 4 good ones.left.
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If LeBron heads west and the Celtics stay healthy, is there anyone who can prevent us from walking to the finals?
Mike
If Embiid stays healthy, the Sixers are gonna be a force to be reckoned with. Not to mention, they have max cap space this summer.
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If rockets get destroyed , the Lebron to Rockets ......this is what Bron is watching ....wants to play with CP3 . Joining Lonzo might be a multi year deal just to make finals , he is running out of years , PG3 is not beating GS, Rockets or Celtics
If Rockets win Title , Then Bron to Lakers or he just stays in Clevland .
Not seeing Bron and Simmons together , will mess up Simmons progress into his own self.
Bron to Knicks is just him wanting out of Cleveland period .
he has maybe 2 great years , 4 good ones.left.
Houston is no doubt the most logical move for an immediate title run. The only issue is that CP3 isn't getting any younger and I still don't know if they get past Golden State. The Warriors fit together perfectly. The entire core is also in its prime. A failure in Houston could turn ugly very quickly.
I wouldn't rule out the Sixers yet. LeBron might want the opportunity to extend his career by adjusting his game to support Embiid and Simmons. This goes against everything LeBron has done in the past, but he's at a point where he can't shoulder the same workload anymore.
He can allow Simmons to run the show by spending most of his time off the ball and on the low block.
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If rockets get destroyed , the Lebron to Rockets ......this is what Bron is watching ....wants to play with CP3 . Joining Lonzo might be a multi year deal just to make finals , he is running out of years , PG3 is not beating GS, Rockets or Celtics
If Rockets win Title , Then Bron to Lakers or he just stays in Clevland .
Not seeing Bron and Simmons together , will mess up Simmons progress into his own self.
Bron to Knicks is just him wanting out of Cleveland period .
he has maybe 2 great years , 4 good ones.left.
Houston is no doubt the most logical move for an immediate title run. The only issue is that CP3 isn't getting any younger and I still don't know if they get past Golden State. The Warriors fit together perfectly. The entire core is also in its prime.
I wouldn't rule out the Sixers yet. LeBron might want the opportunity to extend his career by adjusting his game to support Embiid and Simmons. This goes against everything LeBron has done in the past, but he's at a point where he can't shoulder the same workload anymore.
He can allow Simmons to run the show by spending most of his time off the ball and on the low block.
Problem is, the Cavs would have pretty much zero incentive to accommodate a sign and trade with the Rockets. I mean, only way this works financially would be
Anderson + Gordon + as many firsts as needed for LeBron
Assuming the Cavs accept such a deal, they 'd be stuck with an outrageous payroll and no realistic chance of title contention. Why would they wanna do that, just for the sake of a couple of first rounders in the late 20s? The luxury tax would be huge next year whereas the benefits would be questionable to say the least.
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LeBron has to go to a team where he actually fit's. A team where he can be ball dominant. At present that isn't LA unless they want to stall the progress of Lonzo Ball or LeBron wants to alter his game. He isn't stupid, he knows the path to the finals comes from the East and there is a time limit, he's 33.
My guess is he stays in Cleveland and reloads.
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If rockets get destroyed , the Lebron to Rockets ......this is what Bron is watching ....wants to play with CP3 . Joining Lonzo might be a multi year deal just to make finals , he is running out of years , PG3 is not beating GS, Rockets or Celtics
If Rockets win Title , Then Bron to Lakers or he just stays in Clevland .
Not seeing Bron and Simmons together , will mess up Simmons progress into his own self.
Bron to Knicks is just him wanting out of Cleveland period .
he has maybe 2 great years , 4 good ones.left.
Houston is no doubt the most logical move for an immediate title run. The only issue is that CP3 isn't getting any younger and I still don't know if they get past Golden State. The Warriors fit together perfectly. The entire core is also in its prime.
I wouldn't rule out the Sixers yet. LeBron might want the opportunity to extend his career by adjusting his game to support Embiid and Simmons. This goes against everything LeBron has done in the past, but he's at a point where he can't shoulder the same workload anymore.
He can allow Simmons to run the show by spending most of his time off the ball and on the low block.
Problem is, the Cavs would have pretty much zero incentive to accommodate a sign and trade with the Rockets. I mean, only way this works financially would be
Anderson + Gordon + as many firsts as needed for LeBron
Assuming the Cavs accept such a deal, they 'd be stuck with an outrageous payroll and no realistic chance of title contention. Why would they wanna do that, just for the sake of a couple of first rounders in the late 20s? The luxury tax would be huge next year whereas the benefits would be questionable to say the least.
The Cavs can get out of Smith or Thompson with a few other salaries coming back from Houston (which they have). That still might not be enough, but it would at least soften the blow a bit.
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I can’t see LeBron leaving Cleveland again. Forming a super team in Miami to help win a title (two) was one thing, but the fulfillment of winning the title for Cleveland was on another level not only personally but also for his legacy. The fact that he had to leave Cleveland to form a super team in order to win a title, automatically took himself out of the conversation for being considered the greatest of all-time. I think he has made a legitimate case for being the second greatest player of all-time, thanks to what he has done since going back to Cleveland. If he leaves to chase rings, I believe he only damages his reputation and would possibly start to drop on the all-time list. I would rather not associate LeBron with being some type of Robert Horry, ring chaser.
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If rockets get destroyed , the Lebron to Rockets ......this is what Bron is watching ....wants to play with CP3 . Joining Lonzo might be a multi year deal just to make finals , he is running out of years , PG3 is not beating GS, Rockets or Celtics
If Rockets win Title , Then Bron to Lakers or he just stays in Clevland .
Not seeing Bron and Simmons together , will mess up Simmons progress into his own self.
Bron to Knicks is just him wanting out of Cleveland period .
he has maybe 2 great years , 4 good ones.left.
Houston is no doubt the most logical move for an immediate title run. The only issue is that CP3 isn't getting any younger and I still don't know if they get past Golden State. The Warriors fit together perfectly. The entire core is also in its prime.
I wouldn't rule out the Sixers yet. LeBron might want the opportunity to extend his career by adjusting his game to support Embiid and Simmons. This goes against everything LeBron has done in the past, but he's at a point where he can't shoulder the same workload anymore.
He can allow Simmons to run the show by spending most of his time off the ball and on the low block.
Problem is, the Cavs would have pretty much zero incentive to accommodate a sign and trade with the Rockets. I mean, only way this works financially would be
Anderson + Gordon + as many firsts as needed for LeBron
Assuming the Cavs accept such a deal, they 'd be stuck with an outrageous payroll and no realistic chance of title contention. Why would they wanna do that, just for the sake of a couple of first rounders in the late 20s? The luxury tax would be huge next year whereas the benefits would be questionable to say the least.
The Cavs can get out of Smith or Thompson with a few other salaries coming back from Houston (which they have). That still might not be enough, but it would at least soften the blow a bit.
You said it yourself: it might not be enough. Even if they expand the trade to include JR/Thompson, they 'd still have to take back salaries. As things stand right now, the Cavs have $139,521,659 on guaranteed salaries for next season. Assuming they trade LeBron for Anderson + Gordon, that number drops to $137,835,612. That's way too much for a team that is not competing for the title.
Not to mention, they 'd still have 3 roster spots available (one of them would be the Brooklyn pick).
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LeBron has to go to a team where he actually fit's. A team where he can be ball dominant. At present that isn't LA unless they want to stall the progress of Lonzo Ball or LeBron wants to alter his game. He isn't stupid, he knows the path to the finals comes from the East and there is a time limit, he's 33.
My guess is he stays in Cleveland and reloads.
I'm not convinced that LeBron wants to be as ball dominant going forward, at least not in a traditional half court sets. His defense has suffered significantly as a result. He will need to adapt his game in order to have a chance against the Warriors. LeBron should look to establish himself as a low block scorer and distributor in half court sets. A renewed commitment to defense will also allow him to take advantage of his transition scoring ability.
This is why I wouldn't rule out Philly as a destination. The days of him running the pick & roll at high usage should be over. LeBron can save this aspect of his game for the most crucial moments.
His current playoff usage rate is 20% higher than the last Miami Heat championship team. To put this in perspective he was saving roughly 15 possessions per game on offense compared to this current playoff run.
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I can’t see LeBron leaving Cleveland again. Forming a super team in Miami to help win a title (two) was one thing, but the fulfillment of winning the title for Cleveland was on another level not only personally but also for his legacy. The fact that he had to leave Cleveland to form a super team in order to win a title, automatically took himself out of the conversation for being considered the greatest of all-time. I think he has made a legitimate case for being the second greatest player of all-time, thanks to what he has done since going back to Cleveland. If he leaves to chase rings, I believe he only damages his reputation and would possibly start to drop on the all-time list. I would rather not associate LeBron with being some type of Robert Horry, ring chaser.
its possible, but after last night I stand by my post. This team really has no attractive pieces they can move. And the brooklyn pick is going to be much less attractive at #8. maybe you trade love for Paul george but isnt that more of a lateral move?
Lebron needs to score 40 every night with this group just to have a chance
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He made his own bed, by making sure his team is surrounded by his clique. JR Smith. Tristan Thompson. Kevin Love. They are the reason for his fall right now.
That said, he already got what he wanted. An epic comeback against the Warriors to win the first championship for Cleveland.
We must close them out. Don't give them even a glimmer of hope. I'm confident Stevens will make sure of it.
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I can’t see LeBron leaving Cleveland again. Forming a super team in Miami to help win a title (two) was one thing, but the fulfillment of winning the title for Cleveland was on another level not only personally but also for his legacy. The fact that he had to leave Cleveland to form a super team in order to win a title, automatically took himself out of the conversation for being considered the greatest of all-time. I think he has made a legitimate case for being the second greatest player of all-time, thanks to what he has done since going back to Cleveland. If he leaves to chase rings, I believe he only damages his reputation and would possibly start to drop on the all-time list. I would rather not associate LeBron with being some type of Robert Horry, ring chaser.
its possible, but after last night I stand by my post. This team really has no attractive pieces they can move. And the brooklyn pick is going to be much less attractive at #8. maybe you trade love for Paul george but isnt that more of a lateral move?
Lebron needs to score 40 every night with this group just to have a chance
they can't trade Love for Paul George until well after George signs his next contract.
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If Lebron leaves Cleveland for a 2nd time, he wont leave this time without giving them a head start for the future
Lakers will need to give up Ingram, Kuzma, Hart and whoever else under the sun to obtain him
Lebron , pg13 , paul could all join forces on the Lakers for next season
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Thompson, Love, Korver would all be traded after in this scenerio
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If Lebron leaves Cleveland for a 2nd time, he wont leave this time without giving them a head start for the future
Lakers will need to give up Ingram, Kuzma, Hart and whoever else under the sun to obtain him
Lebron , pg13 , paul could all join forces on the Lakers for next season
The die hard Cavs fans deserve a head start if LeBron bails. LeBron is responsible for their current roster predicament. They got the one championship but nothing has really changed about their culture.
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If Lebron leaves Cleveland for a 2nd time, he wont leave this time without giving them a head start for the future
Lakers will need to give up Ingram, Kuzma, Hart and whoever else under the sun to obtain him
Lebron , pg13 , paul could all join forces on the Lakers for next season
Lebron is a free agent. No reason for the Lakers to trade anything for him.
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If Lebron leaves Cleveland for a 2nd time, he wont leave this time without giving them a head start for the future
Lakers will need to give up Ingram, Kuzma, Hart and whoever else under the sun to obtain him
Lebron , pg13 , paul could all join forces on the Lakers for next season
Lebron is a free agent. No reason for the Lakers to trade anything for him.
Unless Lebron insists
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If Lebron leaves Cleveland for a 2nd time, he wont leave this time without giving them a head start for the future
Lakers will need to give up Ingram, Kuzma, Hart and whoever else under the sun to obtain him
Lebron , pg13 , paul could all join forces on the Lakers for next season
Lebron is a free agent. No reason for the Lakers to trade anything for him.
Unless Lebron insists
why would he do that though?
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GS ....winning ways
is forcing Lebron to Rockets where his buddy is .......D Antoni maybe forced to coach Lebron if the FO sees the Warriors is just too much for Haren and Cp3 to overcome GS by themselves.
I think Lebron understands how difficult it is to blend winning chemistry on a new team. Lakers would be a 2-4 year project . Before they could beat GS in a playoff series .
Rockets is the quickest way to the promised land .
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GS ....winning ways
is forcing Lebron to Rockets where his buddy is .......D Antoni maybe forced to coach Lebron if the FO sees the Warriors is just too much for Haren and Cp3 to overcome GS by themselves.
I think Lebron understands how difficult it is to blend winning chemistry on a new team. Lakers would be a 2-4 year project . Before they could beat GS in a playoff series .
Rockets is the quickest way to the promised land .
this is true, what is LeBron now? 33? 4 years from now he's 37 and most likely on his way down
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George could absolutely be traded, he can opt in and handle the situation the same way CP3 did. He probably won't but it is an option if his preferred destination does not have cap space.
It would cost him around 6 or 7 million just next year, and remove the guarantee of a longer team deal so I don't think that happens. Not when the LAL and PHI offer winning situations along with the money.
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If Lebron leaves Cleveland for a 2nd time, he wont leave this time without giving them a head start for the future
Lakers will need to give up Ingram, Kuzma, Hart and whoever else under the sun to obtain him
Lebron , pg13 , paul could all join forces on the Lakers for next season
Lebron is a free agent. No reason for the Lakers to trade anything for him.
Kind of is if you're talking acquiring those three.
Lakers have enough for 2 max signings, NOT 3. Gotta shed salary, which may include the likes of Ingram/Kuzma and Hart. Or work a sign and trade, but that may be complicated still. I'm sure Lakers will make a run for Kawhi, but that will cost them a bit too.
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I know this isn't going to happen. But let's just say for basketball reasons, LeBron went to Utah. Let's say they did this by renouncing Favors cap hold, trading Rubio and resigning Exum (which I am going to assume will also free up cap space because his hold is $ 14m). They roll out a starting 5 of Exum- Mitchell - Ingles - LBJ - Gobert. Key bench pieces: Burks, Crowder, O'Neale, Jerebko. Would prob need to find a center to spell Gobert unless you are comfortable playing Tony Bradley for 10-12 minutes in a playoff game.
Just curious what people think, how competitive is this team?
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Yes. He has to leave.
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I know this isn't going to happen. But let's just say for basketball reasons, LeBron went to Utah. Let's say they did this by renouncing Favors cap hold, trading Rubio and resigning Exum (which I am going to assume will also free up cap space because his hold is $ 14m). They roll out a starting 5 of Exum- Mitchell - Ingles - LBJ - Gobert. Key bench pieces: Burks, Crowder, O'Neale, Jerebko. Would prob need to find a center to spell Gobert unless you are comfortable playing Tony Bradley for 10-12 minutes in a playoff game.
Just curious what people think, how competitive is this team?
I will answer this under the assumption that LeBron completely submits himself to Snyder's vision for the team. In this case the Jazz jump to the #2 spot in the Western Conference behind the Warriors. They would probably push the Warriors to the limit.
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Lebron , pg13 , paul could all join forces on the Lakers for next season
That team would definitely be favorites to win the 2014 championship.
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Lebron , pg13 , paul could all join forces on the Lakers for next season
That team would definitely be favorites to win the 2014 championship.
One TP for making me laugh, another one coming later because I laughed hard enough to spit on the computer.
Mike
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Lebron , pg13 , paul could all join forces on the Lakers for next season
That team would definitely be favorites to win the 2014 championship.
GM LeBron would not be pleased that his key trade asset subsequently split his leg in half.