If LeBron James is ever going to become the next Michael Jordan, he may do so in the same place that Jordan called home for 13 seasons.
According to the New York Times, an NBA executive has said that James is strongly leaning toward joining the Chicago Bulls, along with fellow free agent Chris Bosh.
An executive of one of the five teams traveling to Ohio on Thursday to meet with the two-time MVP – the Bulls, Heat, Knicks, Nets or Clippers — said they believe it’s a "done deal" and that James is only hosting the other teams to be respectful.
Until free agency officially begins on Thursday though, players cannot talk with teams other than the one they are currently with.
Teams throughout the NBA have spent countless hours trying to position themselves financially to have a shot at James, and other members of this year’s star-studded free agent class.
The Chicago Bulls recently traded guard Kirk Hinrich and the 17th pick in last Thursday's draft to the Washington Wizards in a move to free up salary cap space.
While reports of James and Bosh joining the Bulls may be a little premature, the team is currently $29.2 million under the $56.1 million salary cap, making them serious players in what is sure to be a bidding war.
If this latest rumor turns out to be true, Chicago could instantly become an NBA title contender, with two superstars joining an already formidable roster that features All-Star point guard Derrick Rose.
