The LeBron James saga is officially over after nearly an entire month of weighing his options for the upcoming season. It is truly remarkable that James, at 41 years old, was able to make such a significant impact on free agency.
The four-time NBA champion wants to win another title before calling it a career. For James, he felt the Philadelphia 76ers gave him the best opportunity to accomplish that goal.
“LeBron James is signing with the Philadelphia 76ers for his final run at another NBA championship, he announced Friday,” ESPN’s Dave McMenamin wrote. “James, 41, is signing a two-year, $8 million contract with a player option, Klutch Sports Group CEO Rich Paul told ESPN's Shams Charania.”
The Miami Heat felt like they were one of the best options for James, and many around the NBA believed the same. When James announced he would be signing with the 76ers, Miami was blindsided by the decision.
“The Cavaliers and Heat were both blindsided by LeBron James choosing the Sixers. Both Cleveland and Miami felt they were the favorites to sign LeBron, even up to this morning. Now both teams must pivot to compete directly against LeBron next season,” NBA reporter Evan Sidery wrote.
Now, Miami will return to the market in search of a veteran wing. Shortly after missing out on James, the Heat have already begun serious conversations with six-time All-Star DeMar DeRozan.
“The Heat and free agent Demar DeRozan have had mutual interest in the past, and fresh conversations are expected in the wake of James picking the 76ers,” Miami Herald’s Barry Jackson wrote. “DeRozan, 36, isn’t a three-point shooter (just 30.2% in his career) but remains a highly skilled midrange shooter who can generate his own shot and at times, create for others.”
Adding DeRozan would provide a major boost to Miami’s offense, even though his defense is not considered his biggest strength. With players like Giannis Antetokounmpo, Bam Adebayo, and Davion Mitchell providing defensive support, the Heat could have the balance needed to compete at a high level.
DeRozan has earned $305 million throughout his NBA career. Miami remains an attractive destination for the veteran scorer, so contract discussions could gain significant momentum in the coming days.
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