A list of free agents still available as we near August will have a big surprise at the top. LeBron James is still a free agent.
Despite that fact, JR Smith is the only big name still up in the air. The King is taking a well-deserved break and some would even surmise that the jubilation could last an entire season.
According to Matt Burke of Metro claimed that Cleveland is in "pure honeymoon phase" and that they "seem more interested in selling 'this-is-the-team-that-broke-the-Cleveland-curse' merch than actually building a roster that can compete with Golden State next season."
Now this is highly subjective and it would be hard to speculate on LeBron's mindset at this time. However, it should be noted that James has repeatedly mentioned that the title is for the city of Cleveland, not necessarily the franchise.
While James has already assured the team that he would return, there is hardly any reason why he would delay his signing. It does put the franchise, and specifically team owner Dan Gilbert on edge.
It has triggered speculation even before the outcome of the Finals was decided-James could leave Cleveland, perhaps not this season, but he has already fulfilled his promise to his city and his legacy is sealed with that concern.
Durant choosing the Golden State Warriors actually makes the decision easier for LeBron. Even if Durant wins the title with the Warriors, James will still leave a better legacy because he won with the team that drafted him and KD did not.
Which brings us to the next part of the narrative. Veteran Chicago sportswriter Sam Smith noted an interesting possibility via NBA.com. It's no secret that James would eventually want to play with Dwyane Wade again, along with his buddies, Carmelo Anthony and Chris Paul. Smith teased a possible "phase one" of that plan.
"And even if Wade picks up his option for next season, he has to be a draw for free agents with his presence and the Bulls still have room for a maximum free agent," Smith narrated, in response to a question which insinuated that Wade is too old, or that his signing doesn't benefit the Bulls that much. Smith counters by stating that Wade is a free agent draw.
He continued: "I'm not saying they're interested, and no offense intended, but would Russell Westbrook, Blake Griffin or Chris Paul rather play with Dwyane Wade or Jerian Grant? Plus, LeBron will be a free agent after next season, and, hey can I start that one now: LeBron gets Cleveland its title; he's now free to leave and rejoin his buddy Wade in Chicago where they could have gone in 2010 and now the Bulls have a young core and Butler to support them as they play out their careers in the biggest city they've played in. Wade and LeBron together again in a major media market. Hey, you can't say no to anything in this NBA."
Smith has been known for controversial takes, but he does have real points and he is very credible.
While this is not a clear prediction, it is a real possibility-similar to Durant joining Golden State late last year, or Wade leaving Miami which many thought was impossible.