KOTTER

Maybe Mt. Kotter was welcomed back, but somehow I don't think LeBron will be so honored in his return to Cleveland. The mean spirited side of me (well, I hope it doesn't take up one whole side) is looking forward to his reception.

Not that I have a fondness for Cleveland. In fact, despite all the traveling I've done, and the proximity of my hometown, I'm really surprised that the only time I've been to Ohio was to fly into Dayton years ago. Since I never stepped off the plane, I can't even add that state to the ones I've visited. I think I'm still 7 short. But I do feel for the fans there. I don't like the idea of how James left.

It just doesn't seem right that 3 players could get together and decide to play on the same team which already has one of the best NBA players. It reminds me too much of coaches at all levels that load up on talent. Especially in the kid leagues.

Free enterprise? Yeah, I'm all for that,, but if owners can be charged with collusion, maybe players should be, too. It's one thing to want to play on a winner. But to leave a winner to try to form a dynasty, well there's just something that's not right with that picture. The other day I got a hull of a piece of kettle corn, purchased at Fresh and Easy--the best I've ever had with apologies to bud John Kabat and the FFA at MTV High--stuck on the back, the very back of my tongue. It was there through other eating I did, through brushing and flossing (and a little gagging). Fortunately it left before bedtime or my tongue would have had a nocturnal work out. But that's kind of the way, kind of the feeling I have about the Miami Heat team, and especially LeBron. How they didn't get Amare from the Suns to add on still puzzles me.

So Cleveland, I challenge you to let it all hang out. That pent up frustration from Summer's Canadian soldier black flies that invade, to the Lake Erie winds, to the Cleveland Winter. Wind them all together in a ball of angst and let The Lyin' King have it.

At least you'll feel cathartic for awhile. Until tip off.