The Roar
The Roar

Advertisement

One big three to another: LeBron to team with Love?

LeBron in his Miami Heat days. (Image: NBA)
Roar Guru
12th July, 2014
15

LeBron James is heading home to once again join the Cleveland Cavaliers after four successful years with the Miami Heat, including two championships and Finals MVP awards.

James previously spent seven seasons with the Cavaliers.

As one ‘big three’ falls apart, another structure looks likely to erect. Vegas has brought the Cavaliers into favouritism while pushing the Heat into the wilderness. Miami have blown out to 100-1 with some books.

James announced his decision via a well-crafted message in Sports Illustrated. As was his focus when he went to Miami, James’ mission is to bring success home.

“Our city hasn’t had that feeling in a long, long, long time. My goal is to still win as many titles as possible, no question. But what’s most important for me is bringing one trophy back to Northeast Ohio,” James wrote.

The King appreciates where Cleveland is right now however.

“I’m not promising a championship. I know how hard that is to deliver. We’re not ready right now. No way. Of course, I want to win next year, but I’m realistic. It will be a long process, much longer than it was in 2010.”

James’ words, unlike in ‘The Decision’ TV special on ESPN, were well chosen and a message to the front office.

Advertisement

Enter Kevin Love.

The 6’10” Minnesota Timberwolves forward is yet to make the NBA playoffs since being drafted fifth overall in 2008.

If Love (fourth in points per game and former rebounding champion) was to make the move, he would form an incredibly strong line-up with the King (third in points per game) and point guard Kyrie Irving.

James and Love were members of the gold medal winning Team USA at the 2012 London Olympics. If they were to team up yet again in Cleveland, it would be far more potent than a James-Chris Bosh teaming. The only stumbling block seems to be obtaining a long-term guarantee from Love that he will sign on rather than opting out of his contract in 2015-16.

Cleveland would need to let several of their talented youth – including Tristan Thompson, Anthony Bennett and several draft picks – go if they were to acquire the Timberwolves All-Star. But just as in Miami, veterans may be the quick fix.

Ray Allen, Mike Miller and James Jones have had targets on their for Cleveland management in an effort to keep the King happy and win a championship.

For now they, James is heading back where it all started and his focus is clear.

Advertisement

“I’m ready to accept the challenge. I’m coming home.”

close