LeBron James To Become Free Agent

LeBron James will bypass his $21.6 million player option with the Cleveland Cavaliers and become a free agent on July 1, sources told ESPN.com.

The move, which was expected, marks the third time in the past six years that James will be an unrestricted free agent. This time is expected to have a different outcome, as James intends to re-sign with his current team, sources said. James also does not plan to meet with other teams, sources told ESPN's Chris Broussard.

Last week, Cavs general manager David Griffin said the team had been in regular contact with James since the end of the Finals and that he was "very engaged" in discussions about the roster. Sources told ESPN, however, it is James' intention to stay somewhat removed from the Cavs' free agency until other free agents are handled.

James' agent Rich Paul also represents Cavs restricted free agent Tristan Thompson. Paul has made it known his first priority in free agency will be getting Thompson a deal. After a strong postseason, Thompson is expected to command a contract worth more than $13 million per year. The Cavs have full matching rights and intend to re-sign Thompson.

James is also likely to see how Kevin Love's free agency plays out before finalizing a deal. The Cavs are confident they will be able to re-sign Love and have been since they traded for him in August. Though they cannot formally make an offer until Wednesday, sources say that the Cavs for months have planned to extend a five-year, maximum contract for Love in excess of $110 million despite his shoulder and back injuries last season.