Fansided

NBA Free Agency 2018: 10 biggest player option decisions

By Sydney Robinson

NEW YORK, NY - APRIL 09: A detail view of the Nike Lebron 15 sneakers worn by LeBron James
NEW YORK, NY - APRIL 09: A detail view of the Nike Lebron 15 sneakers worn by LeBron James /
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BOSTON, MA – MAY 23: LeBron James #23 of the Cleveland Cavaliers looks on in the second half of Game Five of the 2018 NBA Eastern Conference Finals against the Boston Celtics at TD Garden on May 23, 2018 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
BOSTON, MA – MAY 23: LeBron James #23 of the Cleveland Cavaliers looks on in the second half of Game Five of the 2018 NBA Eastern Conference Finals against the Boston Celtics at TD Garden on May 23, 2018 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) /

1. LeBron James

LeBron James holds the option to return to the Cavaliers for a contract worth $35,607,969. However, the circumstances surrounding his decision are hardly just money based. After almost single-handedly willing his 8th consecutive NBA Finals, it is hard to imagine a team willing to turn King James away. Soon to be entering his 16th season in the NBA, James may very well be entering his final contract in the NBA.

James could be seeking a 4-year deal, allowing him to complete a miraculous 20 seasons in the NBA. Considering his current record mileage, it is a miraculous accomplishment. James’ position allows him to structure a contract in any way, shape or form. In other words, if he wants to sign a four-year max deal with a player option after every season, he can.

At this point in his career, it is hard to imagine LeBron considering a team without the chance to compete for a championship. Teams including the Lakers, Rockets and Sixers all hold a chance at the King. All three of these teams would allow him to start to take more of a back seat role as he ages.

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That being said, LeBron made the Finals again. It is not out of the realm of possibility the Akron native returns for another season, either by opting-in or opting-out and re-signing long-term. LeBron brought a ring back to Cleveland and has no obligation to stay, but it is fitting that he stays after new GM Koby Altman remade the roster several times in a single season to help him reach the Promised Land once again.

Whether you are pro-Jordan or pro-LeBron, we are witnessing one of the all time greats dominate in a manner never seen before. LeBron earned the decision to join any team he pleases with his consistent and thorough supremacy over the rest of the league.

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