Before he boarded a parade float on Wednesday to celebrate the Cleveland Cavaliers winning their first title in franchise history, LeBron James all but guaranteed that he is not leaving his hometown again.
LeBron told Joe Vardon of Cleveland.com that this is the “happiest time in my life right now” and that he is not planning to test free agency.
“I love it here. I love being here. I love my teammates,” James said. “Obviously my agent will take care of all the logistical things but, I’m happy. I’ve got no plans to go nowhere at this point.”
LeBron reiterated his stance while speaking to ESPN:
LeBron to ESPN (1 of 1): "I love it here in Cleveland. I have no intentions of leaving."
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) June 22, 2016
While the “at this point” will probably make fans in Cleveland a little nervous, LeBron is simply being a smart businessman. His contract allows him to opt out and become a free agent this summer, and he is going to do just that in order to get more money from the Cavs. LeBron would also be wise to use his contract situation as leverage to assure that the Cavs build their roster for next season in a way that pleases him.
LeBron is obviously on cloud nine, and the message he posted to his critics on Instagram is further proof of that. His goal now is to chase as many championships as possible. As long as the Cavs put themselves in position to do that, he has no reason to leave.
