I mean I get it, Kobe will prob. be gone in 2 yrs and the Lakers will need another star, but these rumors are starting already?! smh.
LeBron James understands why there’s already speculation that he could opt out of his contract with the Miami Heat after two more seasons, but the NBA’s reigning MVP doesn’t want any part of the discussion.
Responding to an ESPN.com report on Thursday that teams such as the Los Angeles Lakersalready are plotting for the next time he potentially can become a free agent, James said his only focus is on helping the Heat defend their title.
“I’m here, and this is what it’s all about,” James said after the Heat’s 105-78 preseason win over the Detroit Pistons on Thursday. “I’m preparing for this season, preparing to defend our title and that’s it. This is where … I’m here now.”
James, along with teammates Dwyane Wade andChris Bosh, each signed contracts as free agents in 2010 that allows them to opt out of those deals after the 2013-14 season or remain with the Heat for two additional seasons.
The last time all three were free agents, they were the most sought-after players on the market. Several teams throughout the league, including the Heat, began plotting as early as two years in advance for a chance to sign James. For that reason, James said Tuesday he understood why the speculation already has started regarding his future.
Multiple NBA executives told ESPN.com’s Brian Windhorst that they believed the Lakers could be in the running to pursue James, and could potentially have the salary-cap space to offer James a maximum deal should Kobe Bryant follow through with his plans to retire when his contract ends after two more seasons.
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WRITTEN BY Michael Wallace | ESPN.com & FULL STORY HERE
