According to Chris Broussard of ESPN the Magazine, LeBron James told free-agent Trevor Ariza that he plans on staying in Cleveland for awhile. With rumors swirling that the King has his eyes on the Big Apple, this is exactly the kind of news that Cleveland Cavaliers fans have been looking for. Whether or not we can trust that this is the truth, however, remains to be seen. After all, he did say this in the midst of trying to recruit Ariza rather than publicly make a statement to fans who have been asking the question for quite a long time now.

A source revealed to Broussard:

"Trevor asked LeBron if he would be in Cleveland after next season. And LeBron said, 'I'll be there. Of course, I'll be there.'"

Ariza, however, wasn't convinced. The source said:

"He thought it was just a recruiting tool. "LeBron definitely said it, but until he signs the contract it doesn't mean much."

Cavs GM Danny Ferry and head coach Mike Brown flew out to Los Angeles to meet with Ariza on Sunday. In addition to the call from James, Ariza also got a phone call from the Cavs newest member - Shaquille O'Neal.

So while LeBron may have told Ariza he'll be in C-Town beyond this season, we really won't know for sure until a contract is signed.