James’ legacy isn’t so much marred by “The Decision” as it is uniquely molded by it, and no more worse for wear as a result than what is owed to his subpar Finals record, which many argue belie both his nickname and the “Chosen One” tattoo engulfing his upper back.
The NBA is officially the league that never sleeps, especially in its off-season where numerous trades and free agent moves take place. These five teams made the most noise and that should remain the case going into training camp.
This year’s off-season in the NBA has proven to significantly change what it means to have a successful legacy in the highest level of basketball and what it means to pursue that type of legacy.
The Chicago Bulls didn’t land any big free agents yet again, but the guys they got will make them a better team next year — and a better option for the next big FA sweepstakes.
A story line that did so much to define the past NBA season came to its natural conclusion just 48 hours after Toronto clinched its spot atop the basketball world. Superstar Anthony Davis finally got the trade he (and Rich Paul and LeBron James to a lesser, but still significant degree) wanted.
Whereas prior to the injury Durant seemed destined to do only one thing — opt out his final year with the Warriors and hit free agency once again — Durant’s options post-injury have opened up in ways many of us could not have expected.
It doesn’t matter what Robert Kraft’s reasoning for going to the massage parlor was. It. Was. Stupid.
No matter what the other 29 arenas do, non-stop applause and cheers from this point forward should be the norm every time James steps foot in Cleveland.
Considering that Markkanen, Valentine, Dunn and Portis have missed a combined 43 games this year, it’s fair to think the Bulls could be in the thick of the Eastern Conference. That’s not what many Bulls fans want to hear…
…the metaphorical champagne of the future will only be popped because of this year’s campaign — with Cam Payne included.
