Cleveland Cavaliers superstar LeBron James ignited rumors that he may join the Miami Heat in 2018 after posting on Instagram photos of him riding a yacht on Biscayne Bay during his South Florida vacation. While riding a boat on Biscayne Bay, James posted a photo of the Heat’s home court – the AmericanAirlines Arena -- with the caption "A ton of great memories riding past her today!! #AAA #striveforgreatness."
The Cavaliers superstar posted another photo from his boat, with Miami in the background, with the caption “for all those that had anything to do with me being where I am today I just wanna say THANK YOU!
#blessed. #striveforgreatness." The photos fuelled speculations that he may go back to the team that he led to two NBA championships from 2010-2014 before leaving in free agency and returning to the Cavaliers.
Heat have no plans of signing James
However, the Heat said they believe that James has no serious interest in returning to Miami. Also, the Heat doesn't have salary cap space to accommodate James, who is also reported to be leaving the Cavaliers next season and joining the Los Angeles Lakers. Heat president Pat Riley, for his part, said he wants his team to grow with the present assets they have.
In 2010, James left his hometown squad, the Cavaliers, and brought his talents to “South Beach”, forming a big three together with Chris Bosh and Dwyane Wade in Miami.
Their partnership resulted in two titles before James returned to the Cavaliers in 2014. He then led the Cavaliers to the franchise’s first NBA title in the 2015-16 season.
Instead of pursuing James, the Heat may consider other free agents in 2018, including big men Enes Kanter, Brook Lopez and Derrick Favors and shooters Danny Green, Avery Bradley, Trevor Ariza and Lou Williams.
James joining Spurs?
Earlier, NBA analyst Chris Broussard floated the possibility that James might join the San Antonio Spurs if he wants to win another title, instead of taking his chance in a young franchise like the Lakers. In an interview with "The Herd with Colin Cowherd", Broussard said the best move for James at this point in his career is to join the Spurs, who will give him the best chance of winning his fourth NBA crown.
However, Broussard said James will benefit more if he moves to the Lakers, especially with some of his business interests are in Los Angeles. In addition, LeBron’s wife also plans to move their family to Los Angeles full-time. Also, James will have a chance to mentor Lakers No. 2 pick Lonzo Ball, who was impressive in the Las Vegas Summer League.
