How the Cavaliers Can Keep LeBron James
"I want to win ... it's all about winning for me."
LeBron James, the King of Cleveland, made that statement after his teams series ending Game 6 loss to the Boston Celtics.
For the city of Cleveland, that means you have to quit crying and get into action. It also means you have hope; all is not lost.
If James meant what he said about winning, then a strong case exists to keep the King in his present castle. I believe he meant what he said.
If the decision to leave his home roots relied on a max contract, leaving would hinder, not help that cause.
Only two teams actually have cap room to sign two max contracts, the New York Knicks and the New Jersey Nets. If James gets better in the off-season as he said he would, he'll realize it takes more than talent.
Two max contracts will not necessarily guarantee a championship season. As the Cavaliers found out, the three to nine positions factor greatly into the championship equation.
Going to either city would mean starting from scratch. It took seven years to get to this level of disappointment. I doubt James would be willing to suffer another three of four rebuilding seasons.
If he stays, James could start with a foundation of Anthony Parker, Anderson Verajao, and J.J. Hickson. Every other member on the roster would need to be trade available.
In order to win tough playoff games, James will need more help from the front court. Hickson gave the Cavaliers good play down low, but played very little in the playoffs.
Finding some experienced players would help James better lead his team. Varajao's glaring lack of poise gave Kevin Garnett an easy basket during a crucial period of the game.
Before changing the roster, Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert will need to make changes to management.
Many felt Danny Ferry may have saved his job by signing Shaquille O'Neal during the off-season. His job seemed a little more secure after acquiring Antwan Jamison.
After Jamison's performance — both offensive and defensive — Ferry appears to have fallen for NBA “Fool's Gold."
Obviously Mike Brown will not coach the Cleveland Cavaliers next season. LeBron provides hints, "we could have made better adjustments," that lead on lookers to believe he lacks complete confidence in his present head coach. This causes us to beg another question.
Would LeBron have confidence in Mike D'Antoni? LeBron wants to win. Going to a team with a questionable coach doesn't seem all that smart. The Nets offer very little in terms of a coaching advantage.
If Phil Jackson leaves the Lakers after this season, coaching another legend to a championship could cement his legacy next to Red Auerbach.
Doug Collins could also be an attractive choice.
Jackson might also have interest in taking on general manager duties.
Buck up Cleveland.
If nothing else, you do know LeBron James claims Cleveland as home.
"I love the city of Cleveland," he said in his Game 6 post-game press conference.
Again, if you believe he means what he says — and again I do, LeBron has reasons to stay.
Losing to the Celtics reflects badly on the city of Cleveland. The King wants to bring the crown home.









