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“Where Can he do Better Than Miami Heat?”: LeBron James’ Departure For Cleveland Cavaliers in 2014 Surprised Every ESPN Expert

Nithin Joseph
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"Where Can he do Better Than Miami Heat?": LeBron James' Departure For Cleveland Cavaliers in 2014 Surprised Every ESPN Expert

LeBron James has had quite a storied career in the NBA so far. In his 20 years in the league, the King has racked up four NBA Championships, four Finals MVPs, four regular season MVPs, and a plethora of other awards. All while playing for some of the NBA’s top franchises.

Having started his career with the Cleveland Cavaliers, LeBron made a name for himself as the face of the NBA. But, in 2010, seven ringless seasons were enough for King James. So, in a notorious interview now known as “The Decision”, LeBron decided to take his talents to Miami.

While there, he had his best run of form. Winning two NBA Championships while also winning two back-to-back MVPs. It almost felt like a fairytale that would never end. However, in 2014, LeBron once again entered free agency, refusing to opt in with the Heat. A decision that surprised several experts.

ESPN experts were surprised to see LeBron James return to Cleveland in 2014

2014 free agency was a curious one for many reasons. Primary among them is LeBron James’ decision not to opt-in with the Miami Heat. After all, he had his most successful spell there, where else could he go?

This is exactly what several ESPN experts were thinking at the time. So, when asked about what James’ next move should be, many shared their opinions. And, after questioning, it seemed as though almost everyone agreed on the same things. The King made the right decision to opt-out, but Miami was the best place to return to.

“Where can he do better than a warm-weather city in a tax-free state with an organization that has a winning culture? LeBron’s opt-out feels more procedural than dramatic.” said one expert.

However, as things played out, LeBron made the decision to return home to Cleveland. All in the hopes of doing what he had promised back in 2003 when he was drafted. Win the Cavaliers their first NBA Championship.

Safe to say, his decision surprised a lot of experts, including the highly reputed folks at ESPN. Nevertheless, it all worked out in the end. Seeing as King James delivered on his promise, a season after his return.

King James finally brought an NBA Championship to Cleveland in 2016

The whole premise behind LeBron James and his highly publicized return to the Cavs was his promise to win a championship. The first season didn’t go as planned, as the team fell short to the new kids on the block, the Golden State Warriors. However, the 2015-16 season was a completely different story, as LeBron and Co. felled the 73-9 Warriors in the Finals.

It truly was a dream return for LeBron. One that Cavaliers fans around the world will be grateful for, in spite of all the hate they had for their king beforehand.

About the author

Nithin Joseph

Nithin Joseph

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Nithin is a content writer at The SportsRush. Like his favorite athlete Kobe Bryant, the company has helped Nithin elevate his writing skills to a whole new level, especially as an NBA content writer. With over 1500 articles to his name, Nithin's love for the sport knows no bounds. And, as he continues to watch the sport on a daily basis, he hopes his fascination with the NBA, especially the Miami Heat will inspire more and more readers to give the sport a chance. Perhaps, one day making basketball in India as big as it is in the United States.

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