By Fitzgerald Cecilio

Miami, FL

Superstar LeBron James has rejected speculation that he will opt out of his contract after two seasons to join the Los Angeles Lakers, saying he's focused on helping the Miami Heat defend their NBA title.

"I'm here, and this is what it's all about," James said after the Heat's 105-78 preseason win over the Detroit Pistons. "I'm preparing for this season, preparing to defend our title and that's it. This is where ... I'm here now."

James has signed a contract as free agent in 2010 that allows him to opt out after the 2013-14 season or stay with the Heat for two additional seasons.

Several NBA executives expressed belief that the Lakers could lure James should Kobe Bryant push through with his plan to retire when his contract ends after two more years.

Adding fire to the rumor was Heat owner Micky Arison's statement that it would be financially strenuous for the team to keep James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh together in the next few seasons when the stricter luxury-tax rules take effect.

"That story, I don't know where it came from, but I understand why it came up because of who I am -- it's going to happen," James said. "But I'm not going to worry about it. I've got to continue to stay focused with these guys and make sure we're ready for any challenges that come."

Wade and Bosh also defended James from the rumors, saying he will be in Miami for the long haul.

"They (media) can leave my teammate alone, man," Wade said. "Get on with that. He's going to be here. We're straight. So they can go and mess with somebody else."

"It's old news," Bosh said. "We've been there before. All of us experienced that with 2010. That's pretty much it. We can't really worry about all that stuff."

 

 

LeBron James Rejects Rumors of Lakers Move