The Cleveland Cavaliers have been the biggest mystery this NBA season. Even after trading Kyrie Irving, they were expected to be the team to beat in the Eastern Conference. Instead, they have been embarrassed by inferior opponents, which has caused chaos and drama.
Cleveland’s dramatic moments have been duly noted this season. From LeBron’s outburst on the sidelines to pointing fingers at Kevin Love, it’s been a frustrating season. Unfortunately, the commotion doesn’t stop there.
Tensions mounting between LeBron and Cavaliers
Back in late January, the Cavaliers held a meeting where the players discussed the validity of Love’s illness when he sat out most of the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
According to Jason Lloyd of The Athletic, “James cursed toward at least two team executives,” during the meeting.
Apparently, the Cavaliers have been making roster decisions, such as trading Irving to the Boston Celtics, without consulting LeBron James. “They (Cavs) have been noticeably pivoting away from James’ recommendations,” Lloyd said.
The fact that Cleveland is leaving James out of big team decisions has been driving a rift between the two parties. James is in the final year of his contract and will become an unrestricted free agent this summer, where it is believed he would leave Cleveland again.
With all the drama and chaos surrounding the team, at this point, it wouldn’t be surprising if James did indeed leave.
However, on a brighter note, James is unwilling to waive his no-trade clause before the trade deadline, ensuring the Cavaliers that he wants to play the entire year with them. On the contrary, if James ends up leaving in the summer, this could turn out to be a bad thing for Cleveland.
Dan Gilbert is trying to get James to leave Cleveland
According to Stephen A. Smith, Dan Gilbert is trying to push LeBron to leave Cleveland because he is tired of James holding the team hostage by not signing long-term deals and not allowing them to know of his future decisions.
There is clear frustration from both sides. James is irritated that the team is not winning, and the Cavaliers are agitated that LeBron will not sign long-term contracts.
Ultimately, it’s going to lead to an ugly breakup, where James leaves the Cavs high and dry.
Tensions are rising, and the Cavaliers have become a soap opera rather than an NBA team. What will be the conclusion of all this? Stay tuned.
