LeBron James Faces Lose-Lose Situation with "The Decision"
Regardless of what anyone’s opinion about LeBron James’ future plans is, the chances that you will be either watching or reading about “The Decision” show to be aired tonight on ESPN are high. At this point, with LeBron James dominating the basketball media with his free agency decision for the past two months, there is at least one decision made.
LeBron James will walk out of this whole mess a loser.
Yes, he might get all the fame and professional and financial growth he so desires in New York. He might also become the Cavaliers' most beloved sports figure for the rest of Cleveland sports history if he decides to return. He might also create a dynasty worthy of becoming the best threesome in basketball history by joining Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh in Miami. Or he can follow in Michal Jordan's legacy and join a Chicago bulls team worthy or contending for a championship
But the truth is that whatever his decision will be, his road to it will hurt him immensely.
Stan Van Gundy could not have said it better. This is ridiculous. The fact that his camp actually scheduled a special on ESPN for this was just the icing on the cake. The man actually set up a date that he would make his decision, mentioning he established his date as July 5. He later changed, just creating more buzz around the league. And he finishes it with his own ONE-HOUR long show.
So what happens if LeBron signs with Cleveland? He will anger plenty or marketing firms, hindering his wish to become more famous. He will also be hated by plenty of fans for giving them too much hope.
What about New York, Chicago, or Miami? All these cities will offer plenty of perks to become the business man and player he wants to be. But again, his decision of blowing up his whole situation will only hurt him in the end. If he does win a title with Miami or Chicago, people will always point out that he could not do it alone and needed help from former champion Dwyane Wade, or emerging superstar Derrick Rose. Plus in Chicago he will always be measured against the best ever. His credit will not be given. He will not be the king.
What about the Knicks? Well in my opinion, they are still a rebuilding team regardless if he joins them and will take him a few years to get to the top. That is enough years for Cleveland fans to make New York the rival and look at James as the traitor to beat.
James and his camp could have attacked this in a much better way. Look at Kevin Durant, Rudy Gay, Joe Johnson, or even Wade himself. They are all loved by their teams, and they made the right choice into not blowing things out of proportion.
LeBron James, you are the best basketball player in the league, and will only get better. Hopefully your decision making gets better along the way, because tonight you will be a loser.
