Obviously LeBron James isn’t going anywhere, like he said, he loves Cleveland but he’s also a businessman and he’s definitely demonstrated his ability to rack up some coins.  He turned down his $24 million player option with Cavaliers, but it’s only so he can work out a new deal for more money.

James, who had to inform the Cavs of his decision by Wednesday at midnight, will become a free agent July 1 for the third straight summer.

At 32, James averaged 25.3 points for the second straight season but also 7.4 rebounds and 6.8 assists.  He led the Cavaliers to their first championship and was unanimously voted MVP of the Finals after averaging 29.7 points, 11.3 rebounds and 8.9 assists with an effective field goal percentage of 53.3. He became the third player to record a triple-double in Game 7 of the Finals joining Jerry West and James Worthy.

With the salary cap rising to a projected $94 million, James’ new contract can pay him roughly $30 million next season.

If James takes another one-year contract from the Cavs, he would make $27.5 million for next season. This is because the Cavs don’t have salary-cap space and don’t have James’ full Bird rights, which limits the size of the raise he can get.

He’s certainly looking to keep flexibility, maintain the best chances of reaching a championship and keeping his earning capability intact.

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source: ESPN