Slowly but surely, the stars of the Miami Heat are addressing their pending futures. With free agency quietly waiting in the background for the Big 3, many are wondering if this is the final season of the Heat dynasty. LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh can all opt to go elsewhere this summer and while they have vowed to not discuss the offseason until it is here, players are dropping hints on their thought process.
James has been adamant about not discussing free agency until the end of the season. The reigning MVP is focused on trying to win a third-straight NBA championship and does not want any distractions in his way. However, during All-Star weekend, the forward gave a few hints on what he is thinking and it does not include leaving Miami.
At this point, I can't," James said, via the Associated Press. "At this point, I can't. We don't know what can happen from now to July, so what I've been able to do this whole season to this point is just worry about what's at hand and that's winning another championship. And hopefully at the end of this year I can put myself in a position where I can hold that Larry O'Brien Trophy up once again and then I will assess what I have to do with my future after that."
James is not saying anything new. He is being smart and saying all of the right things at this point in the season. However, fans are already getting excited over a possible Decision Part Two as every team would likely make a run at the forward if he is available. Could a return to the Cleveland Cavaliers be possible? According to owner Dan Gilbert, it is.
According to CBSSports.com, Gilbert remains very confident that the Cavaliers can persuade James to join the team in free agency this summer. He believes Kyrie Irving has enough star power to entice free agents and James is at the top of their list. Gilbert has already stated that James will be a priority over re-signing players like Luol Deng.
While James seems certain that his future could continue in Miami past this season, Chris Bosh is iffy on the situation. Bosh has stated from the start that winning or not winning a championship this season will be the biggest factor in his free agency decision. With Wade's health uncertain, Bosh might be looking to jump ship.
"Everybody doesn't win it, and you're that close from being really good or having the highest of highs or the lowest of lows," Bosh said, via USA Today Sports. "I came into this season just soaking it all in because I want to win this year. I hope it happens - like 'Man, just one more. Please.' "
All three of the Miami Heat stars could easily just decide to play out their current contracts and create another stir in free agency next season. It appears that winning will play a bigger factor over money which could hurt the Heat in the end.