LeBron James announced where he’ll sign and the winner of the biggest free agent sweepstakes in NBA history are the Miami Heat. Stephen A. Smith 1, Bill Simmons 0.
After years of fans across the country waiting for the day he’d make his choice and two weeks of absolute craziness that culminated in a one-hour special called “The Decision” on ESPN today, James ultimately chose to join two fellow stars in Miami.
By teaming up with Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh on the Heat, they become instant favorites to contend for a championship. Details of the how the rest of the team will come together are scarce, especially considering the bulk of money committed to the three stars, but it’s widely believed that the chance to play for a title will entice several veterans willing to take pay cuts.
The combo of Wade, LeBron and Bosh shifts the balance of power in the NBA, even with mainstays like the Lakers, Celtics, and Orlando Magic keeping their core intact. All three players are at or near their prime.
Leaving Cleveland instantly shifts him from hero to villain in the eyes of many, especially considering the city’s 46-year championship drought. Although he took the team to the NBA Finals once, won two MVP awards and twice led the long-suffering franchise to two straight years with the league’s best record, he never delivered a title.
The Cavaliers team and the city are now ravaged, as a team built around LeBron is left to pick up the pieces and drop from favorites to also-rans.
