There’s been endless speculation about LeBron James‘ future with the Cleveland Cavaliers, and Kyrie Irving’s stunning decision to jump ship has rendered things even more uncertain. LeBron can enter free agency next summer, a fact that’s prompted countless sports scribes to let their imaginations run rampant about where he might land.
Los Angeles is one of the putative destinations he’s supposedly eyeing, but it’s clear that the Decision 3.0 will hinge on how the Cavs fare in the coming season. Much of that is contingent on Isaiah Thomas, who is replacing Irving in Cleveland’s lineup but whose lingering health issues could potentially torpedo the Cavs’ championship aspirations.
However, one national NBA reporter believes that if things do happen to go well, Thomas could be the key to keeping LeBron around long-term, a scenario that could end up being a perpetual thorn in the side of the Boston Celtics and their fans.
https://twitter.com/CelticsCSN/status/911381968230780929
The sticking point will be what LeBron opts for as a measure of success. At this point in his career, after seven straight Finals trips, he’ll settle for nothing less than another championship appearance next June. But with the immense talent in Golden State, the Cavs will have to prove that they can actually compete against the Warriors juggernaut.
Even if the Cavs manage to put all the pieces together and play to their full potential, it still might not be enough to convince LeBron to stick around if he thinks he might have a better shot elsewhere.
