BR1986FB;790652 wrote:I think you're WAY off on this. The writing wasn't "definitely on the wall." The Cavs went "all in" on Lebron assuming they were the frontrunner and that he'd re-sign. If anything, Gilbert should've been ashamed for NOT having a "Plan B." Had Lebron not "done them dirty", as you mentioned, they could've at least tried to focus their energies elsewhere. Not saying they would've landed a major free agent but at least they would have had a chance.
I have heard a lot of reports and that's what I am basing my opinion off of.
First there was the report that Lebron wouldnt return his calls and then I heard that Izzo's people reached out to Lebron and Lebron wouldn't assure him that he was returning. Plus if Lebron was returning to Cleveland, he would have certainly been one of the first to sign so that he could have been in place for free agents/trades. However, he chose to be the last to be signed. These are all clues. Nothing concrete there, but still. I think Gilbert probably knew deep down that the situation didn't look good.
However, like I said previously. Lebron might have helped in the long run by waiting. They may have panicked and signed somebody who wasnt deserving to a max deal in order to please the fans. Instead, they did what is ideal when you need to rebuild. They tanked (not a voluntary tank mind you) but it was still tanking and I think in the long run this will benefit them