Wolves / NBA:

[Six Hole]

Caution, dramatic post ahead. Proceed with caution.




I don't like the NBA. I really don't. But what LeBron James did to the state of cleveland is beyond basketball and beyond sport. He publicly ripped the heart out of everyone in the state. The way he went about it can only be described as perverse.

I get ESPN's desire to cover this. But I don't get how someone can do that to an entire state. If he quietly announced he was not resigning with the Cavs and quietly announced he was going to Miami he would be forgiven.

Ditto. Except for the "state of Cleveland part."

It's unforgivable to use that medium to anger, sadden and embarass everyone who cared about the Cavs.

[dxmnkd316]

damnit all... I got so overdramatic I lost track of the facts. Good thing that's never happened before...

[pjoyn]

Caution, dramatic post ahead. Proceed with caution.




I don't like the NBA. I really don't. But what LeBron James did to the state of cleveland is beyond basketball and beyond sport. He publicly ripped the heart out of everyone in the state. The way he went about it can only be described as perverse.

I get ESPN's desire to cover this. But I don't get how someone can do that to an entire state. If he quietly announced he was not resigning with the Cavs and quietly announced he was going to Miami he would be forgiven.

"State of Cleveland"? WTF?!?!?!

Decision in the first 10 minutes? Bull$hit
2 hours of coverage for one man's decision? Dumb$hit
The ego on tool is amazing. I hope he is booed mercilessly whenever he returns to Cleveland.

[Armadillo]

=

Way to take your good-guy image and flush it down the world's largest crapper, dumbazz.

[dxmnkd316]

HAHAHAHAHA

I'm crying right now. That's hilarious.

[bonesaw]

I don't like the NBA. I really don't. But what LeBron James did to the state of ohio is beyond basketball and beyond sport. He publicly ripped the heart out of everyone in the state. The way he went about it can only be described as perverse.

So, what you're saying is, LeBron James is the Norm Green of Ohio?

[dxmnkd316]

I don't like the NBA. I really don't. But what LeBron James did to the state of ohio is beyond basketball and beyond sport. He publicly ripped the heart out of everyone in the state. The way he went about it can only be described as perverse.

So, what you're saying is, LeBron James is the Norm Green of Ohio?

I can't believe I'm going to say this, but...

He's worse. Far worse. (At least from my recollection of the move, I was in second grade IIRC).

[Six Hole]

I don't like the NBA. I really don't. But what LeBron James did to the state of ohio is beyond basketball and beyond sport. He publicly ripped the heart out of everyone in the state. The way he went about it can only be described as perverse.

So, what you're saying is, LeBron James is the Norm Green of Ohio?

I can't believe I'm going to say this, but...

He's worse. Far worse. (At least from my recollection of the move, I was in second grade IIRC).

Norm Green took hockey out of Minnesota. It's not like Lebron has taken basketball out of Cleveland, although it'll die there in short order.

[dxmnkd316]

I don't like the NBA. I really don't. But what LeBron James did to the state of ohio is beyond basketball and beyond sport. He publicly ripped the heart out of everyone in the state. The way he went about it can only be described as perverse.

So, what you're saying is, LeBron James is the Norm Green of Ohio?

I can't believe I'm going to say this, but...

He's worse. Far worse. (At least from my recollection of the move, I was in second grade IIRC).

Norm Green took hockey out of Minnesota. It's not like Lebron has taken basketball out of Cleveland, although it'll die there in short order.

True, but did he bring in a 20-ring circus to broadcast the whole thing while tickling the balls of five different communities while still leading minnesota on for a period of two years?

[Iceburg]

So, what you're saying is, LeBron James is the Norm Green of Ohio?

Or the second coming of Art Modell

[Six Hole]

I don't like the NBA. I really don't. But what LeBron James did to the state of ohio is beyond basketball and beyond sport. He publicly ripped the heart out of everyone in the state. The way he went about it can only be described as perverse.

So, what you're saying is, LeBron James is the Norm Green of Ohio?

I can't believe I'm going to say this, but...

He's worse. Far worse. (At least from my recollection of the move, I was in second grade IIRC).

Norm Green took hockey out of Minnesota. It's not like Lebron has taken basketball out of Cleveland, although it'll die there in short order.

True, but did he bring in a 20-ring circus to broadcast the whole thing while tickling the balls of five different communities while still leading minnesota on for a period of two years?

No, he took the state sport out of the state.

[Armadillo]

And with this, Cleveland officially beats out the Twin Cities as the worst-suffering sports fans in America. OUR hometown MVP stayed with his team, and to quote Robin Williams, we have f'n HOPE.

[Next Crosby]

He's smart, he did everything he could to try and win a championship in Cleveland and couldn't. He's and egotistical d-bag and went at this the wrong way but he made the right move in my mind.

[Armadillo]

Sweet Buttered Jesus...here's the "open letter to Cleveland fans" from the Cavs' majority owner posted on their website:

Dear Cleveland, All Of Northeast Ohio and Cleveland Cavaliers Supporters Wherever You May Be Tonight;

As you now know, our former hero, who grew up in the very region that he deserted this evening, is no longer a Cleveland Cavalier.

This was announced with a several day, narcissistic, self-promotional build-up culminating with a national TV special of his "decision" unlike anything ever "witnessed" in the history of sports and probably the history of entertainment.

Clearly, this is bitterly disappointing to all of us.

The good news is that the ownership team and the rest of the hard-working, loyal, and driven staff over here at your hometown Cavaliers have not betrayed you nor NEVER will betray you.

There is so much more to tell you about the events of the recent past and our more than exciting future. Over the next several days and weeks, we will be communicating much of that to you.

You simply don't deserve this kind of cowardly betrayal.

You have given so much and deserve so much more.

In the meantime, I want to make one statement to you tonight:

"I PERSONALLY GUARANTEE THAT THE CLEVELAND CAVALIERS WILL WIN AN NBA CHAMPIONSHIP BEFORE THE SELF-TITLED FORMER ‘KING’ WINS ONE"

You can take it to the bank.

If you thought we were motivated before tonight to bring the hardware to Cleveland, I can tell you that this shameful display of selfishness and betrayal by one of our very own has shifted our "motivation" to previously unknown and previously never experienced levels.

Some people think they should go to heaven but NOT have to die to get there.

Sorry, but that's simply not how it works.

This shocking act of disloyalty from our home grown "chosen one" sends the exact opposite lesson of what we would want our children to learn. And "who" we would want them to grow-up to become.

But the good news is that this heartless and callous action can only serve as the antidote to the so-called "curse" on Cleveland, Ohio.

The self-declared former "King" will be taking the "curse" with him down south. And until he does "right" by Cleveland and Ohio, James (and the town where he plays) will unfortunately own this dreaded spell and bad karma.

Just watch.

Sleep well, Cleveland.

Tomorrow is a new and much brighter day....

I PROMISE you that our energy, focus, capital, knowledge and experience will be directed at one thing and one thing only:

DELIVERING YOU the championship you have long deserved and is long overdue....

Dan Gilbert
Majority Owner
Cleveland Cavaliers

Apologies for the length.

[murrster]

That letter by Gilbert might have been one of dumbest things I have ever read. Unless LeBron assured the Cavs that he would re-sign with them, there was no betrayal here. LeBron was a free agent. He had every right to be a free agent. The Cavs surrounded him with inferior talent in each of his seven years with the team. If anyone betrayed the Cleveland fans, it was the Cavs ownership. They basically forced LeBron out because he knew that he couldn't win there. Sure, "The Decision" was over-the-top and unnecessary, but calling LeBron a coward simply because he left is immature and extremely unprofessional. The Cavs were a joke before LeBron got there, the Cavs did nothing to help him, and now the Cavs will be a joke without him. I do not feel sorry for that organization one bit. I feel sorry for the fans, but again, their anger should be directed toward the executive staff, not the player that took less money to win.

[Six Hole]

Wolves are getting Bealey. Exciting trade if it were two years ago.

Wonder what the haul will be for Jefferson...

[The Rube]

That letter by Gilbert might have been one of dumbest things I have ever read. Unless LeBron assured the Cavs that he would re-sign with them, there was no betrayal here. LeBron was a free agent. He had every right to be a free agent. The Cavs surrounded him with inferior talent in each of his seven years with the team. If anyone betrayed the Cleveland fans, it was the Cavs ownership. They basically forced LeBron out because he knew that he couldn't win there. Sure, "The Decision" was over-the-top and unnecessary, but calling LeBron a coward simply because he left is immature and extremely unprofessional. The Cavs were a joke before LeBron got there, the Cavs did nothing to help him, and now the Cavs will be a joke without him. I do not feel sorry for that organization one bit. I feel sorry for the fans, but again, their anger should be directed toward the executive staff, not the player that took less money to win.

Weren't they rather succesful in the past couple of years? What happened to leading your team (with less-talented players, in theory) to victory? To use (and probably fail, but you get my drift, I hope) to a team like the Bulls, with Jordan leading the way, Pippen playing second banana, Rodman only getting rebounds, and Kukoc (?) hitting 3s, and getting a few titles? A star, maybe two, and a bunch of role players to fill out the roster?

Better yet, use the Big Three of the Celtics of yore? Bird, McHale, Parrish. Each of them excelled at a specific role, and parlayed that.

Now, you have 3 megastars, and a bunch of (relative) scrubs that just fill roster spots.

LeBron, if he stayed in Cleveland, coulda been a legend. If Miami wins a title, he's only part of a legend now.

[murrster]

Weren't they rather succesful in the past couple of years? What happened to leading your team (with less-talented players, in theory) to victory? To use (and probably fail, but you get my drift, I hope) to a team like the Bulls, with Jordan leading the way, Pippen playing second banana, Rodman only getting rebounds, and Kukoc (?) hitting 3s, and getting a few titles? A star, maybe two, and a bunch of role players to fill out the roster?

Better yet, use the Big Three of the Celtics of yore? Bird, McHale, Parrish. Each of them excelled at a specific role, and parlayed that.

Now, you have 3 megastars, and a bunch of (relative) scrubs that just fill roster spots.

LeBron, if he stayed in Cleveland, coulda been a legend. If Miami wins a title, he's only part of a legend now.

I get your drift, but the problem with your argument is that the Cavs never have had a player as good as Pippen playing second fiddle. Not even close. And yes, the Cavs have been very good the last few years, but only because of LeBron. In the playoffs, he had to be lights out in order for them to win. If he wasn't, there was no one there to pick up the slack. LeBron already was a legend in Cleveland. If he stayed, he would have been a huge waste of talent. He never would have won a championship. If he truly wanted to be a legend, he would have gone to New York. Clearly, we wants to win championships, and that's why he chose Miami.

[The Rube]

And if he stayed, they mighta lucked into something this year, or since the fact he stayed, Cleveland coulda made some moves to get that second banana next year (dunno the FA status of those players that could fill that role)?

This summer, it seemed like it was "clear cap space for LeBron, sign players that LeBron would like to play with" mode.

I dunno. I think he coulda stayed and something good might have happened. As of now, it's becoming the Yankees (I mean, Heat) vs everyone else sorta thing.

[dxmnkd316]

And if he stayed, they mighta lucked into something this year, or since the fact he stayed, Cleveland coulda made some moves to get that second banana next year (dunno the FA status of those players that could fill that role)?

This summer, it seemed like it was "clear cap space for LeBron, sign players that LeBron would like to play with" mode.

I dunno. I think he coulda stayed and something good might have happened. As of now, it's becoming the Yankees (I mean, Heat) vs everyone else sorta thing.

i agree. If lebron didn't act like the complete d-bag a-hole f-face (and other nouns preceded by letters) that he is, they could have resigned him early and picked up some another player (or players) to help him out.

But nope. Lebron finally proved that he is what we thought he was (c) Denny Green

[Next Crosby]

And if he stayed, they mighta lucked into something this year, or since the fact he stayed, Cleveland coulda made some moves to get that second banana next year (dunno the FA status of those players that could fill that role)?

This summer, it seemed like it was "clear cap space for LeBron, sign players that LeBron would like to play with" mode.

I dunno. I think he coulda stayed and something good might have happened. As of now, it's becoming the Yankees (I mean, Heat) vs everyone else sorta thing.

i agree. If lebron didn't act like the complete d-bag a-hole f-face (and other nouns preceded by letters) that he is, they could have resigned him early and picked up some another player (or players) to help him out.

But nope. Lebron finally proved that he is what we thought he was (c) Denny Green

So your telling me that if you were in his shoes you'd make the move to stay in Cleveland and pass up on a chance to play with your good buddies D-Wade and Bosh, who are two of the best player's in the league. I highly doubt that. Lebron gave his heart and soul to Cleveland and in the end he they couldn't surround him with enough talent to keep him. Blame Gilbert.

[The Rube]

Dunno how long this will be up, but I think Hitler has it right!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E1DjJtp2wF4

[Six Hole]

That letter by Gilbert might have been one of dumbest things I have ever read. Unless LeBron assured the Cavs that he would re-sign with them, there was no betrayal here. LeBron was a free agent. He had every right to be a free agent. The Cavs surrounded him with inferior talent in each of his seven years with the team. If anyone betrayed the Cleveland fans, it was the Cavs ownership. They basically forced LeBron out because he knew that he couldn't win there. Sure, "The Decision" was over-the-top and unnecessary, but calling LeBron a coward simply because he left is immature and extremely unprofessional. The Cavs were a joke before LeBron got there, the Cavs did nothing to help him, and now the Cavs will be a joke without him. I do not feel sorry for that organization one bit. I feel sorry for the fans, but again, their anger should be directed toward the executive staff, not the player that took less money to win.

At least Gilbert showed the killer instinct that Lebron has never displayed.

[dxmnkd316]

And if he stayed, they mighta lucked into something this year, or since the fact he stayed, Cleveland coulda made some moves to get that second banana next year (dunno the FA status of those players that could fill that role)?

This summer, it seemed like it was "clear cap space for LeBron, sign players that LeBron would like to play with" mode.

I dunno. I think he coulda stayed and something good might have happened. As of now, it's becoming the Yankees (I mean, Heat) vs everyone else sorta thing.

i agree. If lebron didn't act like the complete d-bag a-hole f-face (and other nouns preceded by letters) that he is, they could have resigned him early and picked up some another player (or players) to help him out.

But nope. Lebron finally proved that he is what we thought he was (c) Denny Green

So your telling me that if you were in his shoes you'd make the move to stay in Cleveland and pass up on a chance to play with your good buddies D-Wade and Bosh, who are two of the best player's in the league. I highly doubt that. Lebron gave his heart and soul to Cleveland and in the end he they couldn't surround him with enough talent to keep him. Blame Gilbert.

There was NOTHING stopping LeBron from resigning before the season was over. Zero. That would have given the Cavs a chance to go after some of these mega FAs. Blame lebron.

[Next Crosby]

And if he stayed, they mighta lucked into something this year, or since the fact he stayed, Cleveland coulda made some moves to get that second banana next year (dunno the FA status of those players that could fill that role)?

This summer, it seemed like it was "clear cap space for LeBron, sign players that LeBron would like to play with" mode.

I dunno. I think he coulda stayed and something good might have happened. As of now, it's becoming the Yankees (I mean, Heat) vs everyone else sorta thing.

i agree. If lebron didn't act like the complete d-bag a-hole f-face (and other nouns preceded by letters) that he is, they could have resigned him early and picked up some another player (or players) to help him out.

But nope. Lebron finally proved that he is what we thought he was (c) Denny Green

So your telling me that if you were in his shoes you'd make the move to stay in Cleveland and pass up on a chance to play with your good buddies D-Wade and Bosh, who are two of the best player's in the league. I highly doubt that. Lebron gave his heart and soul to Cleveland and in the end he they couldn't surround him with enough talent to keep him. Blame Gilbert.

There was NOTHING stopping LeBron from resigning before the season was over. Zero. That would have given the Cavs a chance to go after some of these mega FAs. Blame lebron.

Sign and trade for Bosh and it's another ball game.

[The Rube]

And if he stayed, they mighta lucked into something this year, or since the fact he stayed, Cleveland coulda made some moves to get that second banana next year (dunno the FA status of those players that could fill that role)?

This summer, it seemed like it was "clear cap space for LeBron, sign players that LeBron would like to play with" mode.

I dunno. I think he coulda stayed and something good might have happened. As of now, it's becoming the Yankees (I mean, Heat) vs everyone else sorta thing.

i agree. If lebron didn't act like the complete d-bag a-hole f-face (and other nouns preceded by letters) that he is, they could have resigned him early and picked up some another player (or players) to help him out.

But nope. Lebron finally proved that he is what we thought he was (c) Denny Green

So your telling me that if you were in his shoes you'd make the move to stay in Cleveland and pass up on a chance to play with your good buddies D-Wade and Bosh, who are two of the best player's in the league. I highly doubt that. Lebron gave his heart and soul to Cleveland and in the end he they couldn't surround him with enough talent to keep him. Blame Gilbert.

Given his ego, yes. Be the star. Don't be part of a trio of stars. Lead your team. If he does crap in the finals, and Wade/Bosh shine and win the title? LeBron will be an afterthought.

Honestly, I like the end result (forego egos, win a ring) but the way this particular incident happened? Horrid.

[Six Hole]

I can't yet get odds on the Lakers to win next year's title, but when they come out, I'm putting good money on Kobe and Co. What do you think's going through Kobe's mind today? "f*** those guys, they think they can build a dream team and beat me? Bring it on. I'm Kobe F'n Bryant." (I don't think the Heat make the Finals next year, btw.)

Kobe emerged from today better than Lebron.

[Six Hole]

Given his ego, yes. Be the star. Don't be part of a trio of stars. Lead your team. If he does crap in the finals, and Wade/Bosh shine and win the title? LeBron will be an afterthought.

Honestly, I like the end result (forego egos, win a ring) but the way this particular incident happened? Horrid.

So whose team is it? Who is the alpha male?

If you say Lebron, I think you're mistaken. And that's what makes Lebron both a coward and a chump in all of this.

[The Rube]

Given his ego, yes. Be the star. Don't be part of a trio of stars. Lead your team. If he does crap in the finals, and Wade/Bosh shine and win the title? LeBron will be an afterthought.

Honestly, I like the end result (forego egos, win a ring) but the way this particular incident happened? Horrid.

So whose team is it? Who is the alpha male?

If you say Lebron, I think you're mistaken. And that's what makes Lebron both a coward and a chump in all of this.

The latter part of your post is exactly my point. If you want to be a true legend, a true "hero" you would stick with Cleveland, and get others to join you for a ring. He didn't. He joined Wade/Bosh, in that order.

He chose a ring by ANY means necessary. He's not 40 and just hanging on for a ring. He's a kid. He's good. He can lead, if he so chooses. But he did the media circus thing, and now he's hopefully gonna feel the wrath of backlash.

[Six Hole]

Given his ego, yes. Be the star. Don't be part of a trio of stars. Lead your team. If he does crap in the finals, and Wade/Bosh shine and win the title? LeBron will be an afterthought.

Honestly, I like the end result (forego egos, win a ring) but the way this particular incident happened? Horrid.

So whose team is it? Who is the alpha male?

If you say Lebron, I think you're mistaken. And that's what makes Lebron both a coward and a chump in all of this.

The latter part of your post is exactly my point. If you want to be a true legend, a true "hero" you would stick with Cleveland, and get others to join you for a ring. He didn't. He joined Wade/Bosh, in that order.

He chose a ring by ANY means necessary. He's not 40 and just hanging on for a ring. He's a kid. He's good. He can lead, if he so chooses. But he did the media circus thing, and now he's hopefully gonna feel the wrath of backlash.

Oops. Apologies. Obviously directed my comment to the wrong person. You and I are on the same page, although I don't think he can lead and I don't think he wins more than one title in Miami. Unless, of course, Chris Paul joins the team for next to nothing in 2012 like the rumor has stated since 2008.

[Next Crosby]

I can't yet get odds on the Lakers to win next year's title, but when they come out, I'm putting good money on Kobe and Co. What do you think's going through Kobe's mind today? f*** those guys, they think they can build a dream team and beat me? Bring it on. I'm Kobe F'n Bryant." (I don't think the Heat make the Finals next year, btw.)

Kobe emerged from today better than Lebron.

They're still the best in the west but these three guys on one team will really shift the balance of power in the NBA. They still have 7 positions to fill on the floor so I'm not crowning the Heat champions just yet but who wouldn't take a pay cut to play on this team? The NBA is a different beast then the NHL, if you got a star your team can do big things but with 3 guys of this caliber your team can go far, to be honest with I really don't remember 3 stars like this one NBA team.

[Next Crosby]

Given his ego, yes. Be the star. Don't be part of a trio of stars. Lead your team. If he does crap in the finals, and Wade/Bosh shine and win the title? LeBron will be an afterthought.

Honestly, I like the end result (forego egos, win a ring) but the way this particular incident happened? Horrid.

So whose team is it? Who is the alpha male?

If you say Lebron, I think you're mistaken. And that's what makes Lebron both a coward and a chump in all of this.

The latter part of your post is exactly my point. If you want to be a true legend, a true "hero" you would stick with Cleveland, and get others to join you for a ring. He didn't. He joined Wade/Bosh, in that order.

He chose a ring by ANY means necessary. He's not 40 and just hanging on for a ring. He's a kid. He's good. He can lead, if he so chooses. But he did the media circus thing, and now he's hopefully gonna feel the wrath of backlash.

You and I are on the same page, although I don't think he can lead and I don't think he wins more than one title in Miami.

Miami is D-Wades team and Lebron knows it, Wade is a better leader so if Lebron puts his ego aside and lets Wade do his thing the team will be more successful. This team is going to be fun to watch.

[Next Crosby]

Wolves are getting Bealey. Exciting trade if it were two years ago.

Wonder what the haul will be for Jefferson...

Isn't this guy a head case?

[Snowcool08]

Wolves are getting Bealey. Exciting trade if it were two years ago.

Wonder what the haul will be for Jefferson...

Isn't this guy a head case?

Who in the NBA really isn't? (Sorry for the mass generalization but as far as ESPN tells me, LeBron is the entire league and he's a head case.) Beasley is one of the bigger headcases in the NBA though.

[Slap Shot]

LeBron is a douchebag, but that letter from the Cavs owner was embarrassing and read is if a jilted junior high kid wrote it instead of an adult millionaire.

btw, if LeBron was worth a damn he should have been able to convince Bosh to go to Cleveland instead of him having to tuck his tail and go play second fiddle to someone else in Miami. I am glad he's finally being exposed because I've never enjoyed his, "bull in a china shop" style of basketball as opposed to what you saw from MJ and do see from Kobe.

[Chris Eckes]

A) I loved the letter from Gilbert (despite the fact that it was markedly crazy). Nice to see someone be not-PC. I'll be rooting for Cleveland this year.
B) I honestly don't think the Heat will win a championship with those three guys. Wade and LeBron are ball hogs, they both NEED the ball in their hands to excel. I think the Lakers beat them this year, and honestly, if they meet in the finals I'll be rooting for the Lakers, as much as I hate them and Kobe, I now hate LeBron infinitely more.

[UncleZeb]

Lebron is a free agent, he can do whatever he wants, he didn't want to be in Cleveland I don't see how that makes him a douchebag or one of the many other titles everyone has given him. That's the goal of free agency, players want to go wherever they want, that's the whole point. He is a great player, one of the best of this generation, easily top 3 in the NBA. The reaction Cleveland's owner has is retarded, he is just bitter like their fans that they couldn't win with him and are going to lose him for nothing and return to the dregs of the NBA where they should and deserve to be.

[BlueBandit24]

Lebron is a free agent, he can do whatever he wants, he didn't want to be in Cleveland I don't see how that makes him a douchebag or one of the many other titles everyone has given him. That's the goal of free agency, players want to go wherever they want, that's the whole point. He is a great player, one of the best of this generation, easily top 3 in the NBA. The reaction Cleveland's owner has is retarded, he is just bitter like their fans that they couldn't win with him and are going to lose him for nothing and return to the dregs of the NBA where they should and deserve to be.

I have no problem whatsoever with him leaving Cleveland. However, the way he handled it was classless. I think that is what most people have an issue with.

[Chris Eckes]

He was the hometown boy - he was the Joe Mauer of Cleveland. I don't know about you, but I think he owes something to his community. I'm glad the Twins did what it took to sign Mauer, and I'm glad Mauer realized that this was HIS community. LeBron has always thought he was bigger than any place or anything. He should've signed with Cleveland. He's a tool.

[BlueBandit24]

He was the hometown boy - he was the Joe Mauer of Cleveland. I don't know about you, but I think he owes something to his community. I'm glad the Twins did what it took to sign Mauer, and I'm glad Mauer realized that this was HIS community. LeBron has always thought he was bigger than any place or anything. He should've signed with Cleveland. He's a tool.

I disagree completely here. Lebron does not owe anything to Cleveland. Just because he was from there does not mean he's in debt to the community - he gave them his best for seven years and elected to move on. The self-serving press conference makes him a tool; not the fact that he left Cleveland.

[Next Crosby]

He was the hometown boy - he was the Joe Mauer of Cleveland. I don't know about you, but I think he owes something to his community. I'm glad the Twins did what it took to sign Mauer, and I'm glad Mauer realized that this was HIS community. LeBron has always thought he was bigger than any place or anything. He should've signed with Cleveland. He's a tool.

I disagree completely here. Lebron does not owe anything to Cleveland. Just because he was from there does not mean he's in debt to the community - he gave them his best for seven years and elected to move on. The self-serving press conference makes him a tool; not the fact that he left Cleveland.

The voice of reason, nicely said sir.

[Chris Eckes]

Yeah... I'm just an idealist

[Neely]

Maybe my not being an NBA fan has a great deal to do with it, but outside of those in Cleveland I just don't see getting that worked up about this. I don't think LeBron owes that town anything. He played there for 7 years and made a pathetic organization relevant. For whatever reason he wanted a change. It is his choice to decide where he wants to play. Could it have been handled in a better fashion. Absolutely. But to call him names because he decided to play in another town doesn't make sense to me.

In terms of his wanting to be a "hero" or "legend", that is in the eye of the beholder. Maybe winning is most important to him and so he followed the path that he feels will lead him there. This morning on Mike and Mike they interviewed a reporter from Cleveland and he said that he believes LeBron really doesn't like to lead and will be much happier not being the sole focus any longer. He can still be "the man" some nights but won't feel the entire weight of the world on his shoulders.

Had Mauer not resigned here I would have been disappointed but I would not be calling him out for being a traitor as people are with "King James". Had Mauer made it the media circus as LeBron did and then bolted I would certainly had a few choice words. That was almost as classless as the owners letter. And as for as the owner, he did not do himself any favors. I liked some of the letter, stating how he was still committed to making Cleveland a winner, but it would have sounded much better if he had taken the high road on this one. I always wonder how guys like that get in those positions to begin with.

[dxmnkd316]

Look, for the last time, it has NOTHING TO DO WITH HIM LEAVING!

It has EVERYTHING to do with HOW he did it.

[Hammy]

LeBron is a douchebag, but that letter from the Cavs owner was embarrassing and read is if a jilted junior high kid wrote it instead of an adult millionaire.

Personally, I see it the exact opposite. I liked the passion he showed, etc. He called out Lebron. Granted, some of it was self serving but his statements on Lebron's ego, etc were dead on.

Lebron didn't have to stay in Cleveland. But he handled the situation about as poorly as an athlete can. He made himself look horrible to just about every fan out there (outside of Miami fans that is).

[Don Adams Wheel of Justice]

Just for the record, LeBron is from Akron and has said so many times. Akron is to Cleveland what St. Cloud is to Minneapolis.

[davescharf]

Look, for the last time, it has NOTHING TO DO WITH HIM LEAVING!

It has EVERYTHING to do with HOW he did it.

Yep..and how ESPN whored themselves out to allow the spectacle to occur in the manner it did. I wish a few more reputable people would be ripping ESPN for it, but I'm sure it got huge ratings and you can't fault them for wanting that.

[Neely]

Look, for the last time, it has NOTHING TO DO WITH HIM LEAVING!

It has EVERYTHING to do with HOW he did it.

Yep..and how ESPN whored themselves out to allow the spectacle to occur in the manner it did. I wish a few more reputable people would be ripping ESPN for it, but I'm sure it got huge ratings and you can't fault them for wanting that.

They said in Cleveland 1 in 7 homes watched last night. Double that of Miami. Speaking of Miami, I've never paid attention, but they must draw ok. I just never think of it as a sports town. Just a bunch of people sitting on the beach or at the night club. I know, bad stereotype, but it's the first thing that comes to mind.

[Chris Eckes]

Miami is going to be a really good collection of individuals... we shall see how good they are as a team. My money is they don't win the championship in the next 3 years.

[Handyman]

They will win, Boston proved you can do it with a bunch of stars even though everyone, and I mean EVERYONE said no way would Pierce, Garnett or Allen allow for the others to shine. (even the Press in Boston doubted it would work)

These guys are all friends, and they all chose to go there to play the roles they need to play. They have openly talked about playing together since about 2004. (I dont watch the NBA much if ever but I know that) Lebron knows he wont be the King of the team, and he is better off for it. Kevin Garnett should have never been a leader of a team either, he was never clutch and never wanted the ball at the end. He went to Boston and he didnt need to be and now look at his legacy. Wade is a leader, he lead a team that had friggin Shaq and his huge ego on it to a title. Miami goes where Wade takes them, Lebron knows that and he probably LOVES that. I doubt he cares about being a "legend" that is a lock at this point anyways. He has all the money in the world, and now he wants to win. I doubt he cares if that means he is the star or #2. Do you think Pippen cares? Do you think Karl Malone wouldn't give up his hall of fame status to have won it all with the Jazz? What about Dominique Wilkens? Titles is what people remember, and with the youth of that team and the talent he could win a ton.

Lebron is an A#1 d-bag, he destroyed his team on national primetime TV. But that doesn't change the fact that the Heat are now the favorites in the East (to deny that is to allow your hatred of the player to overshadow the facts) and the Lakers aren't a lock to win it all. Lets not forget the 3 Egos in Boston beat them in the Finals not too long ago.

I wont watch any more games than I did before (i.e. maybe 1) but that team is going to be a fun team to watch.

edit: Lets not forget who will end up coaching that team...Pat Riley has coached collection of egos a time or two

Oh and on the topic of the Wolves...the Beasley trade isnt horrible...it doesnt make the team worse anyways

[Don Adams Wheel of Justice]

The last time these 3 played on the same team, they brought home a bronze medal.

[dxmnkd316]

The last time these 3 played on the same team, they brought home a bronze medal.

The man has a point

[Six Hole]

The last time these 3 played on the same team, they brought home a bronze medal.

Didn't they win gold in 2008? What am I missing?

[momo]

Miami is going to be a really good collection of individuals... we shall see how good they are as a team. My money is they don't win the championship in the next 3 years.

pm me and i'll take your bet.

[Chris Eckes]

Miami is going to be a really good collection of individuals... we shall see how good they are as a team. My money is they don't win the championship in the next 3 years.

pm me and i'll take your bet.

It was a figurative money, momo

[dxmnkd316]

Miami is going to be a really good collection of individuals... we shall see how good they are as a team. My money is they don't win the championship in the next 3 years.

pm me and i'll take your bet.

It was a figurative money, momo

Technically speaking, so is US currency...

[jallengarry]

Good read on last night's spectacle.

http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news?slug=aw-lebrondecision070910

[Ben]

Miami is going to be a really good collection of individuals... we shall see how good they are as a team. My money is they don't win the championship in the next 3 years.

pm me and i'll take your bet.

I'll take your money if X doesn't want to step up, Momo.

[dxmnkd316]

Who would the wolves be flying in from Cincinnati? Apparently my buddy was on a flight with him today.

[Elm Grove Gopher]

The Big O.

Man, he was a stud.

[momo]

Who would the wolves be flying in from Cincinnati? Apparently my buddy was on a flight with him today.

who knows? could be pete rose, he could probably make this team.

[dxmnkd316]

I dunno. I suggested Beasley. But he said no, he would have recognized him.

[gopherguy06]

Jefferson to the Jazz for two future 1st round picks..

http://www.startribune.com/sports/wolve ... CinchO7DUs

[gopherguy06]

Correct me if I am wrong, but with Jefferson gone... that leaves no one from the Garnett trade (or anyone from the Moss or Santana trade..)

Great work MN GM's

EDIT: Too lazy to look, but I think one of the players for Santana may be in the minors still.

[Six Hole]

Correct me if I am wrong, but with Jefferson gone... that leaves no one from the Garnett trade (or anyone from the Moss or Santana trade..)

Great work MN GM's

EDIT: Too lazy to look, but I think one of the players for Santana may be in the minors still.

Guerra is still in the minors. I think he's 21. Plus, Hardy and Rauch were acquired with pieces of the Santana trade.

[gopherguy06]

Correct me if I am wrong, but with Jefferson gone... that leaves no one from the Garnett trade (or anyone from the Moss or Santana trade..)

Great work MN GM's

EDIT: Too lazy to look, but I think one of the players for Santana may be in the minors still.

Guerra is still in the minors. I think he's 21. Plus, Hardy and Rauch were acquired with pieces of the Santana trade.

Yeah, I guess you can count all the players received as a result of the trade, but Rauch came cause of Kevin Mulvey and Hardy cause of Gomez, both whom are gone.

Guerra is a AAA pitcher, so I guess we still have that going for us. Maybe he will pan out, but not worth trading Santana.

[BlueBandit24]

Santana really put the team in a tough spot by demanding a trade during the offseason as opposed to at the deadline. I would have rather Smith and company told him to tough it out and wait for July and I would have loved to have seen a better haul, however, the team had to trade Santana and he was pushing for it in December so he could get an extension done before he turned 30.

Back on topic...

Multiple sources reporting the team is close to signing Luke Ridnour. I was just thinking that this team could use more point guards.

[gopherguy06]

Santana really put the team in a tough spot by demanding a trade during the offseason as opposed to at the deadline. I would have rather Smith and company told him to tough it out and wait for July and I would have loved to have seen a better haul, however, the team had to trade Santana and he was pushing for it in December so he could get an extension done before he turned 30.

Back on topic...

Multiple sources reporting the team is close to signing Luke Ridnour. I was just thinking that this team could use more point guards.

It was just a point of trivia I was noticing that no one really is around from those three trades..

And yeah, we need to stockpile first round draft picks and guards for next year.

[Chris Eckes]

Santana really put the team in a tough spot by demanding a trade during the offseason as opposed to at the deadline. I would have rather Smith and company told him to tough it out and wait for July and I would have loved to have seen a better haul, however, the team had to trade Santana and he was pushing for it in December so he could get an extension done before he turned 30.

Back on topic...

Multiple sources reporting the team is close to signing Luke Ridnour. I was just thinking that this team could use more point guards.

It was just a point of trivia I was noticing that no one really is around from those three trades..

And yeah, we need to stockpile first round draft picks and guards for next year.

I dunno... we drafted PGs last year and SFs this year... I'm kinda thinking that next year is the year of only drafting Cs!

[jallengarry]

Maybe you've seen/heard this, but there are some new Tshirts in Cleveland selling like hotcakes that read: "You may be heading to South Beach, but your Mom is still riding West."......ialto

[Hobey Baker]

I love the fact that Jordan has questioned Lebron saying that he would have never called Larry or Magic to join forces to try to win a title becasue he was trying to beat those guys.

Barkley was even stronger "saying if you are the 2 x MVP, you don't go anywhere. The players come to you! I don't think in the history of sports that you will find an 2x MVP leaving to go play with other people!"

[Handyman]

Do you guys really think he cares what Barkley or Jordan thinks? LeBron has money, and most likely is going to win a title or two, in the end he is happy as hell. All he wants is a title, that wasnt happening in Cleveland and everyone knew it.

[Next Crosby]

Do you guys really think he cares what Barkley or Jordan thinks? LeBron has money, and most likely is going to win a title or two, in the end he is happy as hell. All he wants is a title, that wasnt happening in Cleveland and everyone knew it.

My thoughts exactly.

[Armadillo]

Do you guys really think he cares what Barkley or Jordan thinks? LeBron has money, and most likely is going to win a title or two, in the end he is happy as hell. All he wants is a title, that wasnt happening in Cleveland and everyone knew it.

That was the conventional wisdom about the Chicago Bulls in the late '80s, too. They lost to the Pistons in the playoffs three years in a row, twice in the conference finals. They just couldn't get over that hump, until they broke through in 1991. Almost twenty years later, Jordan's a legend, those Bulls teams are mentioned in the "best ever" category, and nobody remembers the struggles. LeBron will NEVER be seen the same way Jordan is. He had that chance either with Cleveland or with another team that would have been "his," such as Chicago or New York. If the Heat rattle off a bunch of titles, he'll be remembered as a supporting player on a bought team.

[Hobey Baker]

Do you guys really think he cares what Barkley or Jordan thinks? LeBron has money, and most likely is going to win a title or two, in the end he is happy as hell. All he wants is a title, that wasnt happening in Cleveland and everyone knew it.

You are right in saying "he doesn't care" but Lebron has damaged himself in mosts eyes and has tarnished the title he might win by making this move. The NBA elders basically are calling him out and saying he didn't do the right thing!!!

The other issue is that it could have happened in Cleveland. The team has gone to the finals and has been a power in the East. Probably needed a little more time to tweak the roster going back to Barkley's point .. make the guys come to you. He has made himself a a role player instead of "the man".