NBA Rumors: LeBron James has five teams on free agent list

Mar 16, 2014; Miami, FL, USA; Miami Heat forward LeBron James (6) takes a breather during the second half against the Houston Rockets at American Airlines Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 16, 2014; Miami, FL, USA; Miami Heat forward LeBron James (6) takes a breather during the second half against the Houston Rockets at American Airlines Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports /
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ESPN’s Chris Broussard reported on Wednesday that LeBron James’ five potential landing spots this summer, in order of likelihood, are the Miami Heat, Cleveland Cavaliers, Houston Rockets, New York Knicks and Brooklyn Nets.

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While the Heat, Cavaliers and Rockets are expected, as we’ve heard LBJ-related rumors with those teams this summer, it is surprising to see the Knicks and Nets listed here, especially given each of those team’s financial situation.

In reaction to Broussard’s report, Matt Moore of CBS Sports brings up the idea that the Rockets could not only add LeBron, but Carmelo Anthony as well.

He writes:

"The Rockets trade Asik and Lin to create room to sign one of Anthony and James, then do a sign-and-trade of James Harden for the other one. It’s a fascinating possibility that could see Harden moved to New York or Miami.Houston is reportedly on the list of teams Carmelo Anthony intends to meet with."

Still, even with all these interesting destinations for LeBron being considered, perhaps the biggest takeaway from Broussard’s report is that a return to the Heat is the most likely option for LeBron and it’s not too difficult to see why.

LeBron would be returning to a situation with a coach and upper management staff he knows he can trust and to a franchise where he’s experienced the most team-success of  his NBA career.

LeBron’s certainly going to be tempted by his many options this summer, but as Broussard reports, the Heat remain the best bet.