The Decision Part 3, LEBRON Officially Opts Out

LeBron James’ agent informed the Cavs he will not exercise his $35.6 million option and thus will become an unrestricted free agent, sources told @clevelanddotcom … Story coming

— Joe Vardon (@joevardon) June 29, 2018

And just like that, the entire landscape of the NBA is set to change yet again this Summer.

LeBron James has opted out of his contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers, making him an unrestricted free agent for the first time since 2014. The Decision: Part Three, is officially underway.

So, which teams are taking this as good news? The Cavs for starters, who are still very much in the mix. LeBron could break the bank by going back home to Cleveland and maybe guide the Cavs to another Finals appearance in the East. But with the declining talent around him, and the rise of Boston & Philly, that feels unlikely if Cleveland doesn’t reshape it’s roster for The King.

This is also good news for the Lakers, who have the cap space to sign LeBron right now, as well as another max player (*cough* Paul George *cough*). LA is also one of his preferred destinations, per this guy:

Story: LeBron James will be a free agent for the third time since joining the Cavs. They can pay him more money than anyone, but this time he may not come back @clevelanddotcom https://t.co/J447zNmF2B

— Joe Vardon (@joevardon) June 29, 2018

In his story, Vardon details that LeBron’s interest in joining LA is “strong” at this point.

Who is this bad news for? The Cavs, again, who now have to face the harsh reality that they may lose their franchise’s best player AGAIN. Also the Rockets, who only had a real shot at landing LeBron via sign-and-trade. With LeBron opting out, chances of that happening are all but out the window.

I know what you’re all probably thinking. “We already knew this was going to happen” or “No shit LeBron wants to join the Lakers, you idiot.” I’m simply just here to tell you it’s all official. No need to shoot the messenger.

And even though none of you asked, here’s my opinion on what LeBron is going to do. He’s going to LA, so is Paul George. They’re going to guide the Lakers back to the playoffs, but they aren’t going to accomplish squat unless they land Kawhi too. And right now, their chances of getting him feel very slim. Nothing is certain at this time of the year until pen hits the paper, or if Woj tweets it. One thing we do know for sure though, these next couple of weeks are going to be crazy for the NBA.

-Nick Cherico (@NickCherico2)