When LeBron James made “The Decision” to leave the Cleveland Cavaliers for South Beach in 2010, he shifted the landscape of player empowerment in professional sports. Athletes were no longer restrained by their owner and general manager. Suddenly, the artist had taken control from the institution. This is James’ lasting legacy, more than championships or All-Star appearances. He’s blazed the trail for other players to take control of their career trajectories. Could the Trail Blazers entice James to decide he belongs in Portland?
Backlash
When Kevin Durant left Oklahoma City for the already star-studded Golden State Warriors, there was backlash.