Tsar James? The New Jersey Nets Could Be the Top Contender for LeBron

If reports are right, LeBron James will join the Heat, Bulls, Knicks, and Nets, stay with the Cavaliers, and perhaps join the Clippers, Mavericks, Timberwolves, or a few other teams. Too bad there is only one of him on the market this year.

The New Jersey Nets could be the team that actually nabs the face of the free agent class. As LeBron looks to win and to become a billionaire and global icon, the Nets could help him with both needs.

New Jersey is already a large market and will probably open almost as many opportunities for him as New York or Chicago. And that is even before their planned move to Brooklyn.

James could become the most popular sports figure, maybe even the most popular figure period, in the New York area. Majority owner Mikhail Prokhorov, an immensely rich and intriguing owner, as well as LeBron's friend and Nets' minority owner Jay-Z, could certainly open some doors for James.

Part of the draw of Chicago, Miami, or New York for the "King" is their ability to potentially join him with other top free agents (Bosh, Wade, Johnson, etc.,). As we speak, New Jersey is getting closer to clearing enough room for two max contracts.

If they succeed, they could bring in Chris Bosh or another big name. If they fail, they still might be able to get Joe Johnson, Carlos Boozer, David Lee, or another serviceable 2nd option.

Even without extra free agents, the Nets have a pretty darn good supporting cast. Former all-star Devin Harris, likely future all-star center Brook Lopez, and potential filled players Courtney Lee, Terrence Williams, and Derrick Favors.

Add LeBron James and a star power forward to that core, as well as the veterans who will be unable to resist the chance at a title, and you have one dangerous team. They would immediately be one of the top teams and would get better as Favors, Lee, Lopez, and Williams reach their full potential.

Avery Johnson was also a good get for NJN as a head coach.

In the past few hours, it was reported that the Nets believe they are the front runners. They also have the first shot at wooing James tomorrow.

The biggest obstacle I see is their 12-70 record last year, but I think that was because of a lack of a few critical components that can be solved, rather than a lack of overall talent.

It will be interesting to see how it plays out.