Heavy Betting on Cleveland Cavaliers Odds to Win Championship With Lebron James

Carrie Stroup here and Sportsbook.com is reporting extensive future wagering on the Cleveland Cavaliers odds to win the 2015 NBA Championship as rumors continue to swirl that Lebron James is returning home.  At press time, Sportsbook.com was offering odds of 8-1 on the Cavs but this number is sure to be slashed so it is advised to lock this price in early.  

Miami Heat President Pat Riley did make a last minute pitch to keep Lebron put Wednesday afternoon and the NBA star is said to be considering his options closely.

As of Thursday evening, no decision was made, according to ESPN.com.

There is no timetable for James' decision, but with him reportedly planning to attend the World Cup final Sunday in Brazil, a decision before then seems likely, ESPN.com suggested.

James and his agent Rich Paul are done meeting with teams, according to sources close to the situation.

James' agent met or spoke with officials from the Mavericks, Rockets, Suns, Cavaliers and Lakers last week, but James was not present.  Rumors continue to swirl that Cleveland sits atop Lebron’s list of teams where he would like to play.   

Tom Haberstroh of ESPN.com writes that King James choice between Miami and Cleveland is akin to night and day:

If it's true that it has come down to two choices -- Miami or Cleveland -- James could not have two more different options in front of him. One city is near where he grew up; the other, paradise. The Miami front office has been as stable as any organization in the NBA; Cleveland has seen turnover seemingly every year. Miami employs the second-longest tenured coach in the NBA in Erik Spoelstra; Cleveland hired David Blatt, who has never coached in the league in any capacity, last month.

It’s interesting to note that Miami’s odds were set at 5-1 as of press time July 10 and that is great value for anyone who thinks Lebron is sticking around.

The big question for sports bettors: Even if Lebron James returns to Cleveland is that really enough to help them win a chamionship?  It certainly wasn't before.

- Carrie Stroup, Gambling911.com Senior Reporter