LeBron James refuses to provide any hint about next season plans. But this ongoing discussion isn’t going away anytime soon. The Los Angeles Lakers superstar has accepted playing as a third option behind Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. Reportedly, the franchise demands one more sacrifice.
On Monday, ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne, in an appearance on NBA Today, discussed the possibility of a pay cut for James. “The sense I have is that this idea of playing for $50M anywhere is probably gone, but if (LeBron) is willing to play for less, and if that fits with what (the Lakers) are trying to do, I think that door is open,”
After the reported dysfunction in his relationship with the front office and the change of role for the franchise, Bron has to reduce his salary significantly to have a future in LA. King James is still currently operating at an All-Star level, averaging 21.1 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 6.8 assists. But next year, he will turn 42, and it would be shocking if he gets close to his current $52.6 million contract. The Lakers also have to figure out a contract for Austin Reaves.
AR has declined $14.9M player option that’s part of his current deal. Reports further confirm that the 27-year-old will demand a four-year $120 million or five-year $160 million extension if he renews with LA. With Reaves currently the second option on the team, his renewal becomes a priority over LeBron James.
But the Purple and Gold franchise does have some wiggle room. Apart from Bron’s $50 million expiry, Hachimura’s $18 million, Kennard and Kleber’s $11 million are the other options that the Lakers can use for clearing their cap and offer something decent for James. But the front office will have to figure this out quickly because the Golden State is also waiting in the wings.
LeBron James to the Warriors is in the news again
Current stars in the Bay Area, Stephen Curry and Draymond Green, have been vocal in the recent past to share the court alongside Bron. In fact, even James also considered the idea while we await his decision. While nothing is finalized, his relationship with the Lakers has turned for the worse. “The widely-held consensus around the league was that there’s no way he’d be back in a Lakers jersey,” the Athletic’s Sam Amick wrote.
Having Bron has the option alongside Curry and Butler could be a sound strategy. The Golden State also has access to the non-taxpayer mid-level exception this summer. That would allow it to offer a starting salary of $15.1 million. It could also have the $5.5 million bi-annual exception. Plus, with Porzingis’ $30 million expiring contract, they can make a better offer for James.
There’s no doubt that Father Time is catching up to LeBron. With sciatica issues costing him the first month of the regular season and a few games off due to load management, the team will have to tread carefully. But him diving headlong for a loose ball or still chasing for a block clearly states his desire to perform and win.
