LeBron-Riley Meeting On Tap
(CBS) Star free agent LeBron James is scheduled to meet with Heat president Pat Riley in person in the next few days, according to multiple reports, and then decide upon his future that has the entire NBA world waiting on him.
Many free agents and franchises have been sitting tight until the biggest domino in James falls. He opted out of his contract about two weeks ago, and since then James has gone on vacation and let agent Rich Paul handle meetings with suitors. Paul has met in person or on the phone with the Cavaliers, Lakers, Mavericks and Rockets in the past week.
James is planning a "face-to-face" meeting with "several teams" this week, ESPN.com reported, though it's unknown what other squads are on that list besides the Heat.
After James and fellow stars Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh opted out of their contracts, Riley has been working feverishly to add another key piece to the Heat. Pau Gasol, Trevor Ariza, Luol Deng and Marvin Williams are among those that Miami has been reported to have interest in.
James' camp has made it clear he wants a maximum contract, which would start around $20.7 million.
In a most recent development, the Cavaliers believe that James is "legitimately listening to their pitch" and considering a return to Cleveland, ESPN.com reported. Still, there's little evidence of that beyond speculation and anonymous quotes. When James sits down with his suitors, that will be a clearer indication of who he's seriously considering.