It appears so, according to the groundswell of sources who are pointing that way. Chris Broussard outlines the decision:
All indications are that LeBron James is leaning toward signing with the Miami Heat on Thursday night, according to several sources with knowledge of the situation.
Chris Paul, one of James’ best friends, has urged him to stay in Cleveland and let new Cavaliers coach Byron Scott coach him, according to sources. With such strong sentiment around him to not go to Miami, it’s possible James could alter his decision.
James’ family and friends are divided over his decision to play in Miami, according to sources. Opinions range from understanding his desire to play with All-Star teammates, to feeling he is selling himself short by joining Wade’s team, to concerns that playing on such a power-packed squad will hurt his brand even if he wins championships.
While sources close to James insist his heart is in Cleveland and remaining with the Cavaliers was his preferred choice, they say he had concerns about signing a six-year deal there and ending up “31 years old, with bad knees and no title.”
Newsday has reported LeBron has decided on Heat. Only a couple of people can truly confirm this. None have to me at this point.
ESPN has followed Newsday with #LeBron to MIA report. Uptick in salary cap plus no state income tax helped with $:
I still have no direct confirmation from LeBron’s inner circle on Miami. Maybe they’re trying to save suspense in some way.
But the insanity is rising: the 1 source came at me hard that LBJ to Mia is done. Only way I go w/one source on that is if it’s LBJ/Mav.
Part of me thinks LeBron’s camp is just floating this Miami thing to gauge the reaction. And what I’ve seen has not been positive.
I’m going to write more about a possible “Miami Thrice” combination in South Florida a little bit later, but right now I’m going to go have breakfast with my wife and try not to think about LeBron Freaking James for at least an hour.
