LeBron James will play on a less-than-max contract for the first time in over a decade. Sources reveal he signed a two-year extension for $101.35 million with the Los Angeles Lakers, slightly below the $104 million max. This strategic financial move helps the Lakers avoid salary cap restrictions that could hinder future team-building efforts. The deal includes a player option for the second season, effectively granting James a no-trade clause due to his veteran status.
Rich Paul, James’ representative, disclosed that James was open to taking a pay cut to help the Lakers acquire an “impact player.” Despite opening up the $12.9 million midlevel exception, the Lakers failed to attract Klay Thompson and DeMar DeRozan. Thompson was traded to the Dallas Mavericks, while DeRozan went to the Sacramento Kings. James’ adjusted salary allowed the Lakers to dodge the second apron, helping them avoid penalties like having their 2032 first-round pick frozen.
Rob Pelinka acknowledged the challenges imposed by the new collective bargaining agreement, noting that maintaining a contending team is more difficult. He emphasized the Lakers’ continued pursuit of roster upgrades despite these hurdles. James has made one other significant pay cut in his career, joining the Miami Heat in 2010 under similar circumstances to build a championship-caliber team.
