James Jones has been a member of a team that went to the NBA Finals for the last seven seasons alongside LeBron James. Since the two teamed up with the Miami Heat back in the 2010-11 season the duo has been to seven consecutive NBA Finals, a feat not seen since the days of the Boston Celtics in the 1960’s.
They journeyed from South Beach to The Land and won three titles together during their time as teammates. But unfortunately, father time remains undefeated and money also plays a part in the decision-making for all teams. James Jones might be a casualty of both for the Cavs.
Following comes from Joe Vardon of Cleveland.com.
Jones, 36, is a free agent after 14 pro seasons. A source close to the Cavs said Jones would not be back in 2016-17. Jones’ agent, Joel Bell, said neither the team nor Jones had made a decision about his return.
For context, Jones was a free agent after his first two seasons with Cleveland, and his return was never in question.
LeBron is aware Jones may not return to the Cavs and is not upset by it, a source said.
LeBron James not being bothered by Jones potentially leaving is kind of interesting considering LeBron had high praise for James Jones, once saying “He’s my favorite player of all time.”
Check out what LeBron said back in 2015 to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin.
“I told J.J., as long as I’m playing, he’s going to be around,” James said last week. “He’s not allowed to stop playing basketball. So, I’m going to make sure I got a roster spot for him. I love him. He’s the greatest teammate I’ve ever had.”
If this is purely a move by James Jones to retire, then you can understand LeBron being okay with it. But if it’s a salary cap squeeze by the Cavs, it could be another sign that James sees the writing on the wall in Cleveland.
