Good analogy with the Bulls. Hard to believe that dynasty ended 18 years ago. They could've had another legitimate superstar if Rose didn't battle so many injuries.

Your points about Gilbert are valid, but LeBron is not blameless. Especially when he was here the first time. He NEVER recruited players to the Cavs between '07 and '10, which was the contract he signed after his rookie deal expired. Part of it was that he didn't have the championship cache at the time to attract marquee names. But the other big part was why would a superstar commit to a 4-5 year deal in Cleveland without knowing whether the best player would bolt? LeBron's public lack of commitment was why he was stuck with lesser talent like Mo Williams, Larry Hughes, Shaq at the end of his career, etc.

What was even more revolting was watching LeBron recruit immediately upon signing in Miami. I think that was just his way of sticking it to Gilbert for the letter.