The sudden and allegedly mutual parting of ways between the Cleveland Cavaliers and general manager LeBron James left many shocked. It appears as though the Cavs’ players were similarly left in disbelief.
According to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, Cavaliers’ star LeBron James was not consulted before the decision to move on from Griffin, a shocking revelation considering LeBron’s influence on the organization:
Dan Gilbert didn't consult with LeBron James prior to parting with David Griffin, sources said. James had advocated for Griffin extension
— Brian Windhorst (@WindhorstESPN) June 20, 2017
Furthermore, the decision from Cavs’ management has reportedly left James “disappointed” and concerned with their commitment, per Bleacher Report’s Howard Beck:
Source: LeBron is "disappointed" at Griffin's departure, as well as the timing, & "concerned" abt what this portends for Cavs going forward.
— Howard Beck (@HowardBeck) June 20, 2017
This is all a lot to take in. Cavs’ owner Dan Gilbert has notoriously been meddlesome in the basketball decision-making and even more so notorious for being unwilling to spend huge money to keep key components of his team. We don’t know if that was the only factor in his decision, but it certainly seems to be a potentially major one. Gilbert had previously not allowed other teams to interview Griffin for vacant GM positions.
Meanwhile, this summer has seen some whispers of rumors that LeBron would leave the Cavaliers in 2018 to take his talents to Los Angeles, joining either the Clippers or Lakers. While the validity of that speculation is unknown (despite it stemming from reliable reporters), it should be enough to leave the Cavs and their fans worried.
Firing the general manager that helped create a championship and two other Finals appearances will not help the Cavaliers’ case, especially given LeBron’s previous, public support of Griffin.
