LeBron Explained

Brian Windhorst writing for ESPN:

“Things were still far from perfect. James, a stickler for punctuality, was continually upset by players not being on time. Film sessions, buses, flights — the lack of professionalism burned James. Sometimes it was Blatt, who was supposed to be setting the example himself, who was late. And on a January afternoon when the Cavs were practicing in Dallas, James got so fed up he tweeted about it, writing: “No RESPECT for time! #PetPeeve”

Within two weeks, Blatt was fired and Lue, his replacement, was preaching accountability from the first moments. Cavs general manager David Griffin talked about accountability when he made the change, but he might as well have said “culture” as well.”

LeBron was making a lot of noise and taking a lot of heat for his cryptic tweets and passive aggressive attitude. This article reveals the reasons behind his actions. I agree there are better ways to convey his miffed attitude towards teammates and management. Importantly though, he was holding his teammates to a higher standard. Cultures are powerful and difficult to change, but once they are changed, it is much easier to teach and maintain greatness. It seems that Cleveland needed this very much.

This article highlights two main things: LeBron’s leadership and secondly it illustrates why Cleveland has been so awful for so long. The Cavaliers’ organization and culture doesn’t produce success, it breeds practical jokers and a lack of professionalism. The immature and rudderless mess left them in the lottery every year and a carousel of coaches to blame it on. Does LeBron have a lot of power? Does LeBron run Cleveland? Yes and yes. But, clearly, the Cavaliers organization doesn’t know what they are doing and LeBron’s plan at least has both leadership and direction.

Two thoughts:
1: So wait… LeBron fired Blatt for being late to a meeting? He’s as strict as Belichick.
2: Is it just me, or does Cleveland Owner Dan Gilbert need to give LeBron part interest in the Cavs for his next contract? Think about it.