Courtside
Anthony L. Cuaycong
LeBron James’ tweet yesterday said it all. Shortly after news of Derrick Rose coming to terms on a one-year deal with the Cavaliers hit hoops circles, he put up emojis of five roses along with the statement “Let’s Rock G!!” Coming on the heels of an Instagram story of him listening to the Meek Mill song “Heavy Heart” in an apparent dig at disgruntled Kyrie Irving, the Twitter post indicated his mind-set moving forward. It’s the same one that has driven him at 32 and in the prime of his career: He’s chasing rings, and he’ll go to war with those who share in his vision.
No doubt, James can be both imposing and exacting in his quest for success. To be sure, the best of the best invariably are; in pushing themselves no end, they make the same demands of those around them. The standards can be unfair in light of differences in talent and experience levels, which is why Irving, clearly of the opinion that being asked to take on a top dog’s load necessitates being given top billing, wants out. The standards can likewise be career-changing, which is why Rose, a former league Most Valuable Player intent on continuing a promising comeback from a major injury, wants in.
Interestingly, James actively recruited Rose as the latter ruminated on where to land, in stark contrast to his hands-off demeanor regarding Irving’s trade request. No doubt, the King’s assurances swayed the former league Most Valuable Player, who could have chosen to go to the Lakers based on pledges of a higher salary and far more playing time. Needless to say, the development underscores his point: He can ball with those who want to ball with him, and won’t with those who don’t.
From the Cavaliers’ standpoint, Rose is a decided downgrade. He’s no longer as defense-bending as he once was, and won’t be the reliable second option that Irving proved to be over one championship and two runner-up finishes. On the other hand, he’s a certified bargain at the veteran’s minimum of $2.1 million, never mind that he comes with a luxury-tax bill of $6.4 million. Of course, there’s also the windfall that Irving’s departure will bring in return.
James isn’t stupid, so he knows Irving’s desire to move has forced the Cavaliers’ hand. Because there will be addition by subtraction, a parting of ways is the only option available. In any case, he’s determined to keep making his mark, and he figures to cast a shadow that will loom over his would-be former sidekick no matter what.
Anthony L. Cuaycong has been writing Courtside since BusinessWorld introduced a Sports section in 1994. He is the Senior Vice-President and General Manager of Basic Energy Corp.
