Ok, so he had 5 years with a top 10 all-time talent (2 of which LBJ single-handed took them to the finals). It took him a few years to get rid of debts? Come on, man. That team started spending the moment Gilbert walked in the door. The just spent on the wrong players. Slow. Old players. (e.g. Illgauskus, Donyell Marshall, etc).
Also, you're saying by 2005 LBJ knew he was going to....but I seem to remember a whole 2009 season, plus summer (with the Decision being the culminating point) where there was non-stop speculation about where LBJ was going (or if he stays). The situation clearly played out in the summer when D-Wade (and Pat Riley) went out and recruited Chris Bosh first, then LBJ.
Dan Gilbert, in the summer of 09, had the opportunity to recruit Bosh and D-Wade and bring him them to Cleveland...and HE CHOKED! He blew it. And at the end, he released a vile public statement that showed his poor character and his contempt or lack of caring for LBJ's interest. Most owners would have been gracious for the 5 years, 2 finals, 2 mvps that the hometown boy gave him....but Gilbert (and Cavs fans) felt ENTITLED for LBJ to stay home and muddle around in mediocrity. It was garbage.
LBJ was an international brand the moment he stepped foot on an NBA court. Heck, his Junior/Senior year in HS he (his brand) was being exploited by Nike and ESPN (TV and Jerseys) as a TEENAGER! For an NBA player its all about your brand. You can be angry at it LBJ for playing 'the business game' if you want, but thats the nature of capitalism. Its me first. No loyalty anywhere.
You clearly didn't get my point regarding Fisher vs. Nash. Yes Nash is a better player. My point is that teams show a lack of loyalty all the time, and its deemed a good business decision and doesnt get the same character attacks that players get when they make moves in THEIR best interests. My example of Fish and the Lakers proves this point.
Also, speaking of Nash, its curious how he didn't receive the same kind of media attacks that other free agents (e.g. LBJ, D-Howard, you name em) get when they BAIL on their team to go to a winner. Not only did Nash leave, but he went to the Suns main rival, the Lakers. You talk about LACK of loyalty. It gets glossed over because, well...he's Steve Nash. Sickening.