Will He? Won't He?

The long-term plans of several teams were thrown into turmoil this week sources said LeBron James told Trevor Ariza he plans to be in Cleveland in 2010 and beyond.

Only one problem... it isn't true.

Sources close to Ariza told reporters that James -- while trying to convince Ariza to sign in Cleveland -- said he planned to remain with the Cavs after this season. But other unnamed sources close to King James told ESPN's Chris Broussard that isn't so.

James' contract expires after this season, and several teams -- including the Pistons, Nets and Knicks -- have been clearing cap space for years in the hopes of making an offer to James or one of the other big 2010 free agents. That group includes Miami's Dwyane Wade, Toronto's Chris Bosh, Dallas' Dirk Nowitzki and the Suns' Amar'e Stoudemire and Steve Nash.

James' reticence to reveal his plans could be a big factor in luring free agents to Cleveland. The Cavs offer the chance to play alongside James and Shaquille O'Neal -- for one season, at least. But a player like Ariza, looking to sign a longer-term deal, would be wise to consider what the Cavs will look like in 2010-11, after James and O'Neal's contracts expire.

That said, Ariza is expected to finalize a deal with Houston -- a team in danger of losing Yao Ming in free agency after next season.