So what if James walked straight to the locker room following the Cleveland Cavaliers' elimination from the NBA playoffs on Saturday night, May 30? I don't think it was meant to disrespect the Magic. I just think the Cavaliers never imagined their season would end in the Eastern Conference finals, and after another season without an NBA title, James just wanted to be left alone.

No harm in that.

I do, though, have a problem with him not speaking to the media. James had plenty of time to compose himself and make a brief appearance in the postgame press conference. If you're going to accept the spotlight for wins - and especially game-winning shots - then at least show up when those shots don't fall. But not shaking hands after a demoralizing loss, okay by me.

This isn't Little League baseball where sportsmanship needs to start being taught.

The Cavaliers , though, can take care of this problem in the postseason.

Surround him with help. Reports are that Anderson Varejao is opting out of his contract, so that's a start. Let go of Zydrunas Ilgauskas and Wally Szczerbiak, too. Ben Wallace also might be moveable.

Go get Ron Artest. I'm not a big fan of his off-court actions, but I'm guessing he could get in the head of Dwight Howard.

Contact this reporter at (937) 225-2400, ext. 6991 or gbilling@DaytonDailyNews.com