At long last, Lebron James has decided to join forces in Miami with Dywane Wade and Chris Bosh. But was it the right move? Here’s why I think Lebron didn’t necessarily make the storybook move that some fans wanted him to, and why he might have been better off just staying home.1.) It’s still Wade County
First and foremost, Lebron has always been about the legacy. From his self proclamation as “The Chosen One” to his 1-hr ESPN special to tell everyone where he wants to play. However, it’s still Wade County and he will always be in Wade’s city regardless of his accomplishments.
Secondly, it can be assumed the days of back to back MVP’s are gone with such a balanced trio of talent in South Beach. It’s Kevin Durant’s MVP to win this season. Although, we can throw the Black Mamba’s name back into the running as well.
2. Never-ending PR nightmare
Burning jerseys, nasty letters from owner Dan Gilbert and disappointed fans across the nation isn’t necessarily the best lasting image to leave your hometown team—especially in a city that’s experienced so much heartbreak in times past.
By leaving Cleveland after his less than stellar performance against the Celtics, it’s safe to make the analogy that Captain Lebron boarded the lifeboat on his own sinking ship. I’m not saying it wasn’t a better career move if he really just wants to win, but there were certainly better ways to go about parting ways and still keep the Lebron Brand in relatively good graces.
3.) Premature Championship talk
Contrary to popular belief, while the Miami Heat might be a pain in the ass on NBA 2k11 (Good thing I was already a Miami fan ^_^), they are still a 3-man roster who hasn’t had any time to gel—4-man if the Mike Miller signing has been confirmed.
That’s why they call them Championship “Teams”, not Championship “Trios”. There are still a host of teams to compete with Miami in the eastern conference. There’s Boston, Orlando, Atlanta, Chicago, and a ticked off Cleveland who will still be relatively competitive. Oh, and the Lakers are still the champs.
Maybe in a year or so, a few more pieces and Pat Riley steering the reigns we can talk dynasty. Until then, Lebron, Wade and Bosh have to cope with the pressure of championship expectancy in Miami for years to come.
4. “We’re not your friend anymore”
It’s funny how quickly people will turn on you. In the amount of time it took Lebron to say, “Southbeach”, fans went from “We love you Lebron! Come play for [insert team]” to “%^@%# Lebron! I hope you never win a ring”.
Granted he did seemingly string every potential candidate along for weeks, and even years about the prospect of him playing for their team.
In the “Post Decision” NBA, the Miami Heat have become the team to beat, and hence the villain. Everybody will be out to “Beat the Heat”, and won’t be very nice about it.
A Step Back
In the midst of all this basketball drama, as people will rip or revere Lebron for his career decisions, I want to remind everyone of a couple things.
1. Lebron is still human being and nobody but Lebron understands the pressure he was under for the past several months. So be easy on the guy.
2. ATTN: This just in! Lebron has made his decision and life will go on as usual.
P.s. Winning can make people forget--really quickly.
Thanks for reading.
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