With the NBA free agency commencing on Sunday, the Los Angeles Lakers are once again at the center of speculation. The team currently lacks both cap space and available roster spots, following several role players opting into their contracts. However, LeBron James has expressed a willingness to take a pay cut to facilitate the acquisition of a significant player. This potential move could enable the Lakers to utilize the non-taxpayer mid-level exception, valued at approximately $12.9 million per year.
James is selective about the type of player he would make this financial sacrifice for. According to Dave McMenamin of ESPN, James is interested in joining forces with established stars such as James Harden, Klay Thompson, and Jonas Valanciunas. These players bring either veteran playmaking skills or strong frontcourt presence, which James believes could elevate the team’s performance.
While the Los Angeles Clippers are keen on re-signing James Harden, especially with the potential departure of Paul George, it’s unlikely that Harden will join the Lakers under the mid-level exception. On the other hand, the Lakers are looking to strengthen their center position, making Valanciunas a viable option. However, his addition might not be as impactful as James is hoping for.
Klay Thompson emerges as the most probable candidate, with mutual interest between him and the Lakers. As Thompson approaches free agency, the possibility of him leaving the Golden State Warriors for the first time in his career becomes increasingly real. The appeal of returning home and playing for the team he idolized as a child, combined with his father Mychal Thompson’s role as a Lakers broadcaster, adds to the intrigue.
Ultimately, LeBron James is prepared to make a financial concession only if it results in a significant enhancement of the Lakers’ roster. The responsibility now lies with Rob Pelinka and the Lakers’ front office to secure a player who can persuade the 39-year-old star to take a pay cut. Failure to do so could mean that the Lakers enter the 2024-25 season without substantial roster improvements, relying instead on internal development and their recent coaching changes.
