LeBron James’ Next Deal Will Influence Where – or Whether – He Plays in 2026-27
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How much money LeBron James is willing to accept this summer could dictate both his destination and the length of his career, ESPN’s Dave McMenamin and Tim Bontemps report. For the first time in several years, the 41-year-old forward will reach unrestricted free agency without a player option to steer the process.
Front-office executives told ESPN that James’ salary demands will set the market. A veterans-minimum agreement would make him attainable for every club, while a full non-taxpayer mid-level exception – projected at roughly $15 million – or a sign-and-trade scenario would force teams to juggle payroll to stay under the first apron.
The Lakers retain James’ Bird rights, removing the apron restriction for Los Angeles. Even so, the franchise must consider other priorities, including a new contract for free-agent guard Austin Reaves, who could receive max-level offers, according to league sources. The club also hopes to keep Jaxson Hayes, Luke Kennard and possibly Rui Hachimura if the price is right, the report states.
McMenamin and Bontemps list the Warriors, Cavaliers, Knicks, Nuggets and Clippers as potential suitors should James leave Southern California.
Luka Dončić Draws MVP Praise From JJ Redick
In a separate story, McMenamin notes head coach JJ Redick is lobbying for Luka Dončić in the Most Valuable Player race. The Lakers finished March with a 15-2 record while Dončić poured in 600 points, making him only the 10th player in NBA history to reach that figure in a single month. “He’s the engine behind our wins,” Redick said. Dončić declined to campaign for himself when asked by The California Post.
Center Position Showing Improvement
Khobi Price of The California Post writes that Los Angeles is getting stronger production from its centers heading into the postseason, a contrast to last year’s first-round loss to Minnesota when Redick occasionally employed centerless lineups.
Marcus Smart Still Sidelined
Guard Marcus Smart will miss his sixth consecutive game Thursday in Oklahoma City because of an ankle contusion, Law Murray of The Athletic reports.
Source: Hoops Rumors
