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NBA superstar LeBron James has informed the Miami Heat that he intends to waive the remaining two years on his contract and become a free agent.
Rumours circled throughout the 2013/14 NBA season that James would make a move at seasons end; they gathered momentum following the Heat’s 4-1 belting in the recent Finals series against San Antonio.
The most prominent rumours had James linked to New York Knicks’ star (and long-time draft-class mate) Carmelo Anthony. Romantics have him pegged for a possible return to Cleavland.
Importantly, it must be noted that a return to free agency does not mean James will depart South Beach during the offseason. The decision is simply driven by James’ desire to have the power of choice.
A potentially expensive decision to make considering he was contracted to receive $US20 million for his services at the Heat next season.
Speaking following the announcement, Heat president Pat Riley made it clear the decision was expected.
“I was informed this morning of his intentions,” Riley stated.
“We fully expected LeBron to opt-out and exercise his free agent rights, so this does not come as a surprise.
“We look forward to sitting down with LeBron and his representatives and talking about our future together.”
The decision for James to become a free agent will strike fear into Heat fans – the teams’ hope of further Finals glory hinges on him remaining at the Heat.
Conversely, it will also wet the lips of sides with salary cap space all throughout the league.
During his time with the Heat James has won two NBA titles in 2012 and 2013 and lead his side to four consecutive Finals series from 2011 to 2014.
James also boasts four NBA MVP awards and averaged 27.1 points per game last season.
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