The King’s New Clothes?

Posted by Brendan Jackson on Nov 13, 2009 421311 commentshttp%3A%2F%2Fcelticshub.com%2F2009%2F11%2F13%2Fthe-kings-new-clothes%2FThe+King%27s+New+Clothes%3F2009-11-13+12%3A45%3A01Brendan+Jacksonhttp%3A%2F%2Fcelticshub.com%2F%3Fp%3D4213

Finally.  I was wondering if this would ever happen and last night, the gears were at least set in motion.  During his post-game on-court interview, Lebron James stated that he would be changing his number next year.  The impetus?  Michael Jordan.  Lebron went on the say that he didn’t think anyone should wear 23, as no one can really grasp the greatness that is Michael Jordan.  I’ve thought about this for the NBA for awhile, but I’ve also thought it meant a lot that James wore 23.

Whether or not this actually happens remains to be seen, but what we are seeing is a boy becoming a man.  I used to think Lebron was all about “me.”  Many of his on and off court antics would, albeit endearingly, suggest that as well.  I’ve heard that Lebron wants to be the best player in history, the highest paid player in history, and be “the guy” on a championship team.  This is why I always took the wearing of 23 as more of a slight than admiration.  I understand every kid grows up wearing 23 and wanting to “be like Mike” but when you actually have a chance to like Lebron,  you have to carve your own path. Legacies shouldn’t overlap in that way.

Hopefully, now they won’t.  What does this mean for the Celtics?  There might be an increase in Lebron’s maturity level, which may translate into Lebron taking less money to play for a good enough team to win.  However, one thing is now put to rest.  All the delusionists out there that think if the C’s finagle this and don’t resign some guys, are in play for Lebron, well, his new number next year will be his lucky number “6.”

If that doesn’t seal the deal, than I don’t know what will.

(Happy Friday)