The NY Daily News photo caption (here) in Mike Lupica's LeBron James piece is the typical knee jerk reaction devoid of facts. LeBron James has played 7 full seasons in the NBA and been to the NBA Finals one time. 25 now, he turns just 26 next season (career here).
Michael Jordan's first world championship title came in 1991 at the age of 27 (career stats here, Chicago franchise history here. The Bulls lost in the first round his first 3 years as a pro. They didn't make it to the finals until his 7th season-- MJ's first title.
So, there really isn't a need for panic by LeBron, or for doubters to rush to judgement.
Is his career in Cleveland over? Probably. But Cleveland fans should also consider the numbers above and perhaps not give up so quickly. Is LeBron heading to New York? As a Knick or a Net? Jay-Z is talking LeBron, but isn't the rapper tighter with D-Wade? But if he can't pry Flash outta south Florida, the case could be made that it is the Nets that have the better supporting cast highlighted by Lopez, Harris, Lee, and the up-and-comer, Terrence Williams. Jay-Z has already been actively (story) recruiting James. But is he worthy of coming to NYC? Ouch.
