If the Cavs can’t compete with the Warriors, LeBron could leave again
The Cavs and LeBron were dismantled by the Warriors in Game 1 of the NBA Finals, and although the Cavs could easily take back the series momentum with a win in Game 2, today Colin speculated on what impact a Golden State sweep could have on LeBron’s future in Cleveland.
Colin noted that resports say the reconciled relationship between James and owner Dan Gilbert is still tenuous, and the two don’t see eye to eye on what constitutes “all in” from a salary spending perspective. Gilbert may not feel the same urgency as James to win another title after accomplishing the primary goal of bringing Cleveland its first professional sports title since 1960’s.
Even though most indications have been that LeBron intends to stay in Cleveland long term, and the Cavs would do their best to overhaul their roster for next season to convince him to stay, if he isn’t happy by the time he’s eligible to hit free agency – at the end of next season – it’s not out of the question he could seek out better situation.
He’s already done it…twice.
Somebody I know who I trust said this a year ago: Just because LeBron’s coming back, doesn’t mean he’s staying there.”
Cleveland needs to make massive adjustments or they could get swept
Cleveland’s blowout loss in Game 1 was an eye opener for Colin. Golden State looked like an offensive machine, and Kevin Durant showed how much more dangerous this Warriors team is compared to last.
Durant may have set the record for uncontested dunks in an NBA game, and even though Steph Curry was incredible, the Warriors missed a postseason’s worth of layups and open looks they normally knockdown.
Colin pointed out that the teams have a track record of playing in playoff blowouts, including all but one of the games in last year’s Finals, but if Cleveland doesn’t have an answer for Durant, things might only get worse.
If the Cavs get run out of the building again buy this team, there may not be a miracle comeback this year.
You have to make a massive change or this series could be over in a heartbeat.”
Guests:
Eddie House – 11 year NBA veteran joins the show with the loud train in the background to talk Game 1; why he isn’t writing off the Cavs yet; and why leaving for a ring isn’t guaranteed but staying for more money always is.
Chris Mannix – NBA writer for The Vertical is in-studio to break down Game 1 of the NBA Finals; why he thinks no one can stop the Warriors; why the Cavs are in danger of becoming the Buffalo Bills; and why Markelle Fultz is the clear choice for the #1 pick.
Doug Gottlieb – FS1 Basketball Analyst and host of The Doug Gottlieb Show is in-studio to talk NBA Finals Game 1; why Cleveland has no answers for Durant defeensively; and why Durant is a superior offensive player to LeBron James.
Joe Vardon – Cavs beat writer for Cleveland.com joins the show to discuss the Cavs’ locker room reaction to their Game 1 blowout loss; if there’s any silver lining the Cavs can takeaway from Game 1; and his relationship with LeBron as a beat writer for the team.