No problem man. It is all speculation at this point anyway. Until we see how good a team we have and how good of a team Cleveland puts together and how far they go, no one can really predict what Lebron will do. I agree that he would like the big lights and spot light in NY, but he ain't coming unless he thinks there are enough pieces here to compete within the next 1-2 years. I definitely think the outcome of the Cavs season (and our own season) will be a big factor in his decision process.
True, everything hinges on what happens this season. I think the Cavs are gonna be really good, but not on the same level as the Lakers or Celtics. Missing KG really put the kibosh on last season for them, but the Celtics are the team to beat in the East this season.
I think the Knicks will stink, but we'll finally see the emergence of top shelf talent in Gallo and Chandler, and I hope our new guys fit in someplace (since our draft standing next season is totally FUBAR - thanks Isaiah, for the legacy.)
My fingers are crossed that we manage to expunge at least one of "those" two contracts. I am counting on Eddy to represent, such as it is his audition to have an end of career. And he has mad scoring skills. Should be fun to watch him this year at the new weight. Anything could happen there.
I am keeping all of my digits crossed for some mentor/disciple magic regarding Rubio, but I realize it's still a long shot. If t-Ricky came into the fold, 2012 through 2017+ are looking potentially unforgettable in the NBA, with the Knicks (and MDA's system) at the center of the NBA's re-emergence as a popular spectator sport (especially on TV, where regular season ratings have been fubar, too).
I'm down for keeping talk about the Knicks civil and will strive not too post any flip responses. But dude, 98% chance? Puhleese.
Lebron is a Yankee fan, where else would he want to establish his dominion than in the City where his favorite sport franchise (i.e., besides his own) may be turning the corner into a strong five or six year run of greatness? And should that happen, it would only serve to enhance the marketing opportunities for the star players on BOTH teams, sometimes in the same commercial. It's mind boggling to think what the agencies would come up with given that scenario. And it will coincide with the revival of the stock market (it's under 10k stilland may retract again this year), with brands seeking to stake a claim on the next huge phase of growth in our economy. It's gonna be interesting. LBJ is smart enough to get it. He just gotta play it cool until the cards are all down next summer.
[Edited by - Moonangie on 08-24-2009 7:30 PM]