Why Lebron James’ Decision Was Actually The Right One

Updated: July 11, 2010

Fires are being burned, murals are being torn down, and people are threatening physical violence against a man for his decision. If you knew any better you’d think I was talking about the Oscar Grant decision in Oakland that led to many riots.

But no, not Oakland.

As you already know I am describing the scene in the streets of Cleveland Ohio after Lebron James decided to spurn his home state in hopes of winning multiple championships with Dwayne Wade. Fans are emotional, the owner is spiteful, and everyone in Cleveland is ready to mob their former “King” after seven long years together that culminated in zero NBA titles.

Lebron gave all he could, and at the end of the day it wasn’t enough.

It was terribly clear that Lebron had zero shot at winning multiple championships in Cleveland and he had to leave. In seven years, the best talents that Lebron could get around him were Larry Hughes, Antwaan Jamison, Mo Williams, and a 36 year old Shaquille O’Neal. In that same time Kobe Bryant added Paul Gasol, Dwight Howard added Vince Carter, and Paul Pierce added both Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen.

The hardest decision of Lebron’s life had to be made.

Stay and try to win a title for his home state with minimal talent or leave for greener pastures elsewhere? If he stays and doesn’t win he becomes Kevin Garnett in Minnesota, a perennial All-Star who exits the playoffs early every year. If he leaves for New York, New Jersey, or Chicago and cannot win he becomes Tracy McGrady or Vince Carter, an ultra talented swingman who has nothing to show for the prime of his career.

In the end Lebron decided that it wasn’t worth it to try to be the man on an island. He realized he needed help if he is ever going to hold that big gold basketball over his head. He needed a Ray Allen and a Kevin Garnett, or a Paul Gasol and a Ron Artest/Lamar Odom. The opportunity to step into such a situation for the next four to six years presented itself and Lebron could not pass it up.

It was the best decision for the King.

Wearing the crown is overrated without the rings to match.