Sources: LeBron James to decline $35.6M player option, will enter free agency

Source: Yahoo Celebrity

June 29, 2018 at 12:38

The NBA’s best player could be on his way out of Cleveland (again) after declining his player option on Friday, but there’s something hollow about his thankless pursuit of Michael Jordan’s six titles

Cleveland Cavaliers star LeBron James will decline his $35.6 million player option for the 2018-19 season and will be an unrestricted free agent, league sources told Yahoo Sports.

James faced Friday’s deadline to inform the Cavaliers of his decision but had always planned to opt out of his deal, league sources said.

LeBron James averaged 27.5 points, 9.1 assists and 8.7 rebounds this past season. (AP)

James, a four-time NBA MVP, three-time champion and 14-time All-Star, will enter free agency with the Cavaliers, Los Angeles Lakers and Philadelphia 76ers as his leading suitors. James played all 82 games this past season and had one of his best seasons at age 33, averaging 27.5 points, 9.1 assists and 8.7 rebounds and leading the Cavaliers to the NBA Finals.

James’ decision to decline the option gives him maximum flexibility in free agency. James led the Cavaliers, the franchise near his hometown of Akron, Ohio, to the 2016 NBA championship and four consecutive Finals berths.

James returned to Cleveland in 2014 after leaving the organization in 2010 to join Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh with the Miami Heat. In Miami, James won two Finals MVP awards while winning back-to-back titles in 2012 and 2013.