So LeBron James finally leaves the NBA East and there is relieved cheering and merriment across the conference, like when the Munchkins of Oz were finally rid of the scourge of the domineering Wicked Witch.
Except, In Miami, at least, nothing changed.
The Heat's path to the kingdom's crown has not cleared because the King has fled.
The Celtics and 76ers now joust for LeBron's vacated Eastern dominance. Last season's top-seeded Raptors are still around. The Pacers, Bucks and Wizards would come next. Maybe then you get to Miami right up there at the front of the "others" category of teams competitive enough to be in play for a low playoff seed.