LEBRON HINTS HE'LL EXPLORE FREE AGENCY

LeBron James is going to make the Cleveland Cavaliers wait and sweat. James indicated today that he is unlikely to accept a contract extension from the Cavs until after the 2009-10 season and presumably will become a free agent. At an event in his hometown to unveil Nike Air Max LeBron VII, the latest sneaker in his signature line, James made his strongest comments yet about his future. The NBA's reigning MVP said he signed a three-year contract in 2006 to give him more options once it expires. "I signed a contract in 2006 with an option, and it would make no sense for me to sign that contract if I didn't keep my options open," he said. "I'll let you fill in the blanks."

The Cavaliers offered James a contract extension on July 18, the three-year anniversary of the signing of his current contract. The team could offer the extension at the highest salary allowed of up to three years. James can sign the extension offer anytime before June 30, 2010. James, who will make $15.7 million next season, also has an option in his current contract that can extend his deal through the 2010-11 season.

- Jason