NBA Free Agency Rumors: LeBron James Becoming an Owner?

The uncertainty surrounding LeBron James and free agency is the talk of the NBA. I’m almost certain that players from teams still in the playoffs have had conversations off court about what they think LeBron will do.

With the negotiation period of free agency drawing near on July 1, how will NBA teams (not including Cleveland) lure LeBron without actually being able to have contact with the free agent? What intangibles must a team have to enhance interest from LeBron?

Could possible offering a stake in a NBA team make a contract offer more appealing?

How can this be done? Where ever LeBron is to sign, could it be possible for a team to defer a certain portion of money from his contract toward an eventual stake in the franchise?

If King James’s dream is to one day be a billionaire, and be a very successful business mogul. This year’s free agency could be his first major stepping stone to accomplishing all of that and more. LeBron James can literally hold an NBA franchise hostage, and use their pursuit of his services against them.

Would owners Jerry Reinsdorf (Bulls), Dan Gilbert (Cavaliers), James Dolan (Knicks), or Mikhail Prokhorov (Nets) be willing to eventually give LeBron James a piece of the pie upon his retirement? If you want the King you have to pay his taxes, along with all the King's horses and all the King's men.

Although, no team can pay LeBron more money in base salary then the Cavaliers, other teams must find a way to match the $30 million that LeBron stands to lose if he signs straight up without a sign-and-trade.

The draw of a larger market might not be the only enticer for LeBron James. With a city that has put him on the throne as their King, the intrigue of riches and an NBA champion is the only thing that has LeBron wavering in his decision.

Ultimately, something big has to be in the works in another city that prompts LeBron James to jet from Cleveland. Maybe a future stake in an NBA team could be just that.

Can LeBron set precedent with his decision this summer in free agency?