From Facebook groups, ads in newpapers and on billboards, songs on Youtube, and even a mention from the President of the United States, LeBron James is the hot topic circling NBA airwaves.
James, as we all know by now, is slated to hit free-agency come July 1, 2010 and just about every NBA team is trying to figure out a strategy to get the superstar athlete on their team. One of those teams is the Chicago Bulls and with an endorsement from President Barack Obama, James may be headed to the Windy City in no time.
The talks regarding free-agency are nothing new. For months, speculation has swirled and teams like Chicago, New Jersey, New York, and Miami are set to be big players during the free-agency period, all having an opportunity to land the Cavs and NBA’s best all-around player.
The Bulls haven’t had this type of money since who knows when (Jerry Krause was still around) and will look to make James their prized target. Talents like Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh, Dirk Nowitzki, Amare Stoudamire, and Joe Johnson are on that list as well, but don’t bring the same excitement as James does.
James captures the attention of plenty of cities, including the so called ‘Second City.’ The only problem is that the Bulls aren’t a shoe-in for the services of James, nor is any other team for that matter.
Chicago is however, said to have an upper-hand in talks with James for several reasons, the first being that the Bulls are on the fringe of becoming a really good team. Surrounded by James would be an athletic point guard in Derrick Rose, something Cleveland lacked even with a heady guard like Mo Williams leading the way. Chicago has a low-post presence in Joakim Noah that the Cavs sorely lacked during their playoff run, albeit short-lived at best. The team also has veterans like Kirk Hinrich and Luol Deng, along with youngsters Taj Gibson to give the Bulls a formidable nucleus provided James signs with Chicago.
Other teams also have various assets, but it looks like the Bulls are ‘numero uno’ in terms of what the team provides for ‘King James.’
It’s important to note however, that James’ new team—or old for that matter—aren’t the only things he’s considering when looking to change zip codes.
The city itself and what it brings to the table is a giant factor for a guy like James. Chicago may be referred to as the ‘Second City,’ but James is looking to be the top dog. If he signs with Chicago, it will be a duplication of Michael Jordan circa the 1990’s, with endorsements, shoe deals, and celebrity appearances popping up all over the map. Not to mention Chicago’s world famous cuisine, shopping, and attractions.
When everything is said and done, Chicago could be looking at its next superstar athlete. If you don’t believe me, just listen to the King.