The Phone Call

George Kokinis:
Hello, this is George Kokinis.

Danny Ferry:
Hello, Mr. Kokinis.  This is Danny Ferry, General Manager of the Cavaliers.  Do you have a few minutes to talk?  I'd like to talk to you about our mutual problem - Braylon Edwards.

Kokinis:
He certainly is a headache.  But how is he our mutual problem?

Ferry:
Well, let's just say that Braylon and LeBron are not exactly best pals right now, and it might be best for both of us if something were done about that.  LeBron mentioned to me that Cleveland was becoming unsafe for his entourage, and I can't afford to have him distracted right now, with the season around the corner.  If Cleveland is unsafe for his entourage, you know, he might just leave.

Kokinis:
That's unfortunate, Danny, but what can I do about it?  His value is probably lower right now than it ever has been.  Trading him now would not get us close to full value.

Ferry:
Nevertheless, I would hate for word to get out that LeBron was considering going to New York because Cleveland was not big enough for him and Braylon Edwards, of all people.  That would not look good for you, all those LeBron fans putting blame on the Browns.

Kokinis:
Is that some sort of veiled threat?  You know Edwards is a free agent after this year, right?

Ferry:
I'm just saying.  If LeBron were distracted from basketball and it got out that Edwards was responsible, it could get even uglier for your team, you know?  It's pretty ugly there now, from what I hear.

Kokinis:
(Long pause) Well, what can I do about it?

Ferry:
Could you trade him to one of the New York teams?  Season passes for you and your family, and maybe even I can get LeBron to make an appearance on the sideline IN BROWNS APPAREL.  Whad'ya say?

Kokinis:
I'll make some phone calls.  Good talking to you, Danny.

Ferry:
Nice doing business with you George.