LeBron James won't 'be rushed' on decision for next team, agent says
by Alex Butler · UPIJuly 21 (UPI) -- Sports fans are clamoring to find out where LeBron James will play next season, but agent Rich Paul said his decision is "not going to be rushed."
Paul made the comments on the latest episode the Game Over podcast, which was released Monday. James, who became a free agent June 30, also made several public appearances last week. He said his most important priority is that he "wants to compete," but did not provide a shortlist of potential suitors.
"We're not going to be rushed," Paul said on Game Over. "We're not going to be rushed. It's his choice to make and when he makes the choice, he'll make it."
The Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat and Philadelphia 76ers are among the teams in pursuit of the future Hall of Famer. Oddsmakers currently list the Heat as favorites, followed by the Cavaliers.
James, 41, averaged 20.9 points, 7.2 assists and 6.1 rebounds over 60 starts last season for the Los Angeles Lakers. That points per game average was tied with his rookie season for the fewest of his career.
NBA commissioner Adam Silver has been among those to wish for James' announcement to come soon. Silver cited NBA schedule construction last week when asked about the decision. Paul said he spoke to Silver and told him James doesn't "really know."
"There's been several people to call and say, 'Hey, Rich, is there anything more we should be doing? We could be doing?'And my answer is, 'No. We don't need you to go above and beyond about anything. We understand it. It's clear. All the messages have been sent,'" Paul said.