LeBron James grabs the spotlight, but sheds little light in Larry King interview.
CNN's Larry King interviews LeBron James at James' home near Akron during a taping of "Larry King Live."
The Larry King interview is part of "the plan" that LeBron James said his team planned to "execute" this summer. He meant his advisors and marketing types, not the Cavaliers.
James wisely used the interview to reduce some of the heat that he may be feeling at home, as speculation has been insisting the free agent would not re-sign with the Cavs.
Of course, the speculation comes from the national media, or from places such as New York or Chicago. Why would they claim James was leaning in the direction of the Cavaliers? That's a boring story.
But James to the Knicks? The Bulls? The Nets? Even the Clippers?
Now that has juice for an audience everywhere but here. And let's face it, the national networks think Cleveland is about as important as Cheyenne, Wyoming.
James said the Cavs have a true homecourt advantage because the Akron native does have a real comfort level here. He also has a tremendous owner in Dan Gilbert, who is willing to spend to reach James' stated goal of "multiple" championships.
Does this mean he will sign with the Cavs?
Who knows?
We probably will hear from James a few more times before July 1, when free agents can begin to sign with new teams. The interviews will be with the members of the national media such as Larry King, where James can be engaging and not be expected to be pressed too hard about his intentions.
Part of "the plan" seems designed to keep James in the news, to make this "The Summer of LeBron." It's a great way to sell shoes and other products endorsed by the two-time Most Valuable Player.
So what should be made of the King Interview?
For Cavs fans, the good news was the kind things he said about his home. But he still left the door wide open to leave, so we're not even close to a definitive answer.
Right now, all we can be sure of is James will continue to market his brand name in the media, fueling the speculation and the headlines.