LeBron: Cavs have free-agency edge
ESPN.com news services
CLEVELAND -- One month from the start of the NBA's free agency frenzy, LeBron James has handicapped his field of suitors.
The Cleveland Cavaliers lead the pack.
In his first interview since the Cavs' season ended with a shocking, second-round loss to Boston, James told CNN's Larry King that Cleveland has "an edge" to re-sign him when the greatest collection of free agents in league history hits the open market on July 1.
King, who interviewed James at the two-time MVP's home near Akron on Tuesday, asked the superstar if Cleveland has "an edge going in?"
"Absolutely. Because, you know, this city, these fans, I mean, have given me a lot in these seven years. And, you know, for me, it's comfortable. So I've got a lot of memories here. And -- and so it does have an edge," James told King.
The interview will air Friday on CNN's "Larry King Live," capping the program's 25th anniversary celebration on the network.
Other than his postgame interview, James has not talked to the media since the Cavs were eliminated in the second round of the playoffs. James has not given any hints about his plans, saying only that he and his "team" of advisers will weigh all the options.
The New York Knicks, Chicago Bulls and New Jersey Nets are among a group of teams expected to make a strong push for James.
James has spent all seven seasons as a pro with the Cavs, who offered him a contract extension last year and can give him $30 million more than any other team in a maximum-length deal. Cleveland recently fired coach Mike Brown, who led the team to 143 wins the past two seasons but couldn't get them to the finals either year.
James has kept a low profile since Cleveland's season ended. He has not commented on Brown's firing and he did not speak to reporters when he helped judge an amateur slam dunk contest during a public appearance on Saturday.
I was too suprised to read this statement by Lebron. He has to say he's leaning toward staying. It's obviously the more heroic thing to be conflicted about leaving your hometown and the small market team you play for instead of joining the presumed Evil Empire. But make no mistake. Between having to rebuild a roster and deal with his shooting guard banging his mom, the prospect of Lebron actually staying in Cleveland is slim to none. And some dude getting slapped 23 times isn't going to keep him there.
But maybe if Lebron does stay in town his new step dad Delonte may take him to KFC for a double down and a free style session.
Cleveland doesn't look to have much to offer. Still, putting up a bunch of billboards isn't going to pull him away either. Come up with a better idea Chi Town. Like having Obama threaten to have Lebron framed for rape. That's how they got Johnny Be Good.
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