“I was able to be a part, and James (Jones) was able to be a part, of an unbelievable ride in Miami, and for us to have a second chance of that here in Cleveland is a blessing, and we’re excited about the opportunity”. Once James knows for sure that Cleveland will spend what’s necessary to keep the team together, he will make his commitment. Opting out? That’s about getting a new deal, probably a max contract, and this entire thing is based on finances, nothing else.
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LeBron James has opted out of his contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers and has become a free agent.
Wade could have exercised an option to earn $16.1 million with the Heat next season.
The exact figure for the upcoming season will be announced by the NBA on June 30 but is expected to exceed $22.5 million.
LeBron James (23) of the Cleveland Cavaliers tries to silence the crowd as they play the Atlanta Hawks in Game 3. James is banking on more flexibility that opting out affords. The Cavaliers also have the benefit of being one of the best teams in the league, so they could attract solid veteran free agents looking for one more chance at a championship ring.
Some of the players who will become free agents are Kevin Love, Tristan Thompson, K.R. Smith, Iman Shumpert and Matthew Dellavedova.
It has been repeatedly made known that James is not exactly fond of Kevin Love. Love stands to make the most money in Cleveland although he’d be the third banana on a championship-contending team.
On Sunday, James and Love were seen swimming freely in a pool at Los Angeles, though the meeting wasn’t about free-agent matters.
Given the animosity that was reported between the two during the regular season, this could possibly be an indication that Lebron is extending the olive branch in hopes of bringing back the three-time All-Star as a member of his supporting cast. However, the best intentions don’t always work out, with rumors of infighting and injuries derailing the Cavs’ quest for the NBA title.
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Regardless of whether James convinces him or not, Love has reiterated he plans to stay in Cleveland.
