Fan Blog: Lebron Back to Cleveland?

Anyone who has watched sports television this past week has more than likely heard about Lebron James' most recent comments regarding Cleveland. Lebron James has emerged as one of the most popular athletes on the planet. Because of this, his departure from Cleveland and now his annual returns to Cleveland are becoming national news. This past week he was making his third appearance in Cleveland since the infamous departure. When asked by a reporter about a possible return to Cleveland he stated, "I think it would be great, it would be fun to play in front of these fans again." Later in the interview he went on to say, "I had a lot of fun times here. You can't predict the future. Hopefully you continue to stay healthy. I'm here as a Miami player and I'm happy where I am now but I don't rule that out in any sense. If I decide to come back, hopefully the fans will accept me."

Needless to say, these comments have created quite the stir within the sporting world. There has been much discussion over whether these comments were out of line for him to say, and more importantly, whether or not there is some truth to his return to Cleveland. It will be two more seasons before James has a chance to opt out of his contract and explore the possibility of returning or looking elsewhere. Many people think he is just trying to regain some of his popularity but I really do think there is some truth to what he said. Lebron's image has taken a huge hit since he left Cleveland and along with that I think has come a lot of regret. Miami Heats' fans have been lacking even with the crazy talent they have there. Miami even had to use a "Fan Up Miami" promotion last season because they were having so much trouble selling out games. Even when they do, everyone isn't in their seats until halfway through the first and second halfs. Nothing against Miami fans but this is completely different than what Lebron is used to in comparison to Cleveland. In Lebron's time in Cleveland he was literally treated as if he owned the city. He gave the city a certain buzz and he could do no wrong. Since he was from Northeast Ohio, Cleveland sports fans viewed him as their own homegrown product, therefore felt an interesting attachment to him. This is something that he can never achieve outside of Cleveland.

I don't know how much to actually read in between the lines on these comments but for those Cavs fans who would like to see Lebron back in Cleveland, this cannot be viewed as bad news. I think there is a decent chance he could return but I really do think things will have to change with current Cavaliers owner, Dan Gilbert. Whether he stays in Miami, returns to Cleveland, or explores other opportunities, it will without a doubt be an eventful and interesting time when James has the chance to opt out. I am sure rumors will swirl like crazy between now and then and it will be very interesting to see how everything turns out.