Central Notes: LeBron, Cavs, Bulls, Bucks

LeBron James and the Heat play in Cleveland tonight, which means we’re in for another round of rumors and speculation about the possibility of the reigning MVP returning to the Cavaliers next summer. However, Terry Pluto of the Plain Dealer believes becoming fixated on the idea of signing LeBron next summer is the worst thing the Cavs and their fans can do. As Pluto notes, James may not even hit free agency in 2014, since he has the option to continue playing under his current contract. “Staring starry-eyed at James” won’t fix what’s wrong with the Cavs, who need to explore the trade market in hopes of upgrading their roster, writes Pluto.

Here’s more from around the Central:

  • If the Cavs are hoping to entice LeBron back to Cleveland, they’ll have to encourage him to use his imagination, since the team hasn’t looked good on the court, says Bud Shaw of the Plain Dealer.
  • Asked after the Bulls‘ Monday loss to the Jazz if he thought entering rebuilding mode was a viable option for his team’s front office, Joakim Noah replied, “I think it’s possible. I mean, yeah.” Still, GM Gar Forman insists the Bulls won’t make any “rash decisions.” Joe Cowley of the Chicago Sun-Times has the details and more quotes from Forman.
  • Luol Deng also acknowledged that he’s probably more likely to be traded following Derrick Rose‘s injury, but said he’s trying not to listen to speculation, tweets Nick Friedell of ESPN Chicago.
  • A fan website, SaveOurBucks.com, has started a fundraising campaign in the hopes of securing a high-visibility billboard encouraging the Bucks to tank. The campaign is already more than 80% of the way to its $5,000 goal. Bucks owner Herb Kohl has publicly stated that he doesn’t believe in bottoming out in a rebuild, but given Milwaukee’s record, roster, and arena situation, along with the tantalizing 2014 draft class, all signs point to it being in the team’s best interests.
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