LeBromination

Weak title, I know.

My assumption is that the three big signings (Wade, Bosh, James) were ultimately a result of that initial meeting they had some time ago. My guess is that they took the turnaround in Boston as a blueprint, but I think they missed a few things.

1. Pierce was languishing in Boston. They were bad and he was a superstar. He could have pressed to get traded, but ultimately worked with the team and got the help he needed. Had he left, that story would have never happened, and it's a fairy tale. He'll be remembered - not just in Boston - as a great player and a loyal man. Had LeBron stayed for another year in Cleveland, got the help, and started winning there, he'd be even more of a folk hero than he thinks he is now. Instead, he's after that one ring to make sure people recognize that he's not just flashy.

2. If one of the big three in Miami doesn't perform up to expectations (or there's an injury), they're not much better than Cleveland or Miami was last year; which is not as good as Boston.

3. Miami has plenty of stars already. Chicago is more like a big Cleveland.

4. To win a ring, I understand moving to Miami to play with Wade and Bosh. That could have happened with the Bulls just as easily, with a much clearer power structure, and he immediately would have had a humongous fan base. One that launched Michael Jordan into an international brand. One that flooded the lake front six times after championships.

5. Kobe didn't retire.

6. Michael had Scotty, but beyond that, he would have won titles on sheer force of will. I don't think LeBron has that, and I don't know if Wade has the same venom since he already got his. That essentially leaves Bosh to drive. Can you imagine Michael, Scotty, and Horace vs. the top 3 in the current league? No contest.

As it stands right now, I guess I'd acquiesce that Boston and Miami are the two Eastern teams to watch this year. Chicago might still be in the picture for the playoffs, but without another significant signing, I'm not sure how far they can go.