Cavs News: LeBron James reportedly would test free agency "if his hand is forced"

The Cleveland Cavs' 18-12 start and rumors of dissension in the ranks under head coach David Blatt are causing a palpable sense of uneasiness around the franchise, especially in regards to the mood of one LeBron James.

According to Cleveland.com's Chris B. Haynes, the Cavs are feeling the (no pun intended) heat when it comes to making the King's return to Northeast Ohio a permanent one:

There is immense pressure to keep The King happy.

James, who turns 30 today, has no intention of compromising his prime years playing for a sputtering organization. He can opt out of his contract at the end of the season and become a free agent.

Given the massive scrutiny he would endure if he departed Cleveland a second time, if his hand is forced, I'm told he won't hesitate to make the appropriate business decision if it means bolting.

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It's not clear exactly what it would take to "force" LeBron's hand, but be rest assured that Cleveland's ownership will bend over backwards to ensure that James is comfortable re-signing with the team in the summer of 2015 (or less likely, picking up his player option for 2015-16).

(h/t Zach Harper of CBS Sports)

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