NBA Contract Rumors: Will LeBron James help the Los Angeles Lakers this offseason?
In an attempt to help the Los Angeles Lakers acquire more talent, LeBron James did them a favor last offseason by signing for less than what he could have. Jovan Buha of The Athletic claims that even though he was giving at the time, it doesn't appear that he will be this time.
On his podcast, Buha stated, "I will predict that I don't think LeBron takes a discount." It would have to make sense, in my opinion, to have a specific player or need in mind. For example, I think LeBron would consider taking the non-taxpayer MLE if Naz Reid is prepared to do so.
Or perhaps LeBron will take that into consideration if they are going to make a signing move that is somewhat akin to what they had in mind for Klay [Thompson]. This guy is attempting to purchase a team after he retires. To be honest, I don't believe he is only trying to give up money.
James' pay cut prevented the Lakers from receiving the significant assistance they required, but there's no denying that they have added talent through trades this season. With Luka Doncic at the top of the organization's priority list, this summer will be very important. It will be intriguing to watch what they do to surround him with talented players.
LeBron James might not be as kind with taking less money if he has plans beyond his basketball career, like purchasing a team like Jovan Buha says. Additionally, since Doncic is no longer the Lakers' top goal, James might take all the money he can now as the team has given him the keys to the future.
The Lakers will make every effort to surround Doncic with talented players in the hopes that they will be able to contend for many years to come and convince him to sign a contract extension.
On First Take, ESPN's Brian Windhorst stated, "He needs to watch how they assemble this team around him and what they do in June and July for when August 2 comes." "Whether or not Luka commits to the future is the Lakers' big moment; they aren't winning a championship this year."
Over the course of 19 games, the Lakers are now playing some of the finest basketball in the league, and it's likely that they will maintain their momentum into the playoffs, where they will be a team that few teams want to play against.
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