LeBron James Could Take Pay Cut To Stay With Lakers

LeBron looks likely to play another season, but his destination is unclear. Ramona Shelburne said "the sense I have is that this idea of playing for $50 million anywhere is probably gone, but if he's willing to play for less, if that fits with what they're trying to do, I think that door is open." At 41 he is still averaging 21.1 points, 6.8 assists and 5.8 rebounds while on a $52.6 million player option. The Lakers have cap space, but may be wiser to use it to extend rising Austin Reaves than to keep LeBron at full pay. Merlin senses a classic crossroads. LeBron brings Finals upside and leadership, so Cleveland or Golden State are possible suitors, but the smoothest path is a Los Angeles return on a reduced deal that preserves roster flexibility. Watch LeBron’s decision and the Lakers’ moves around Reaves; those signs will decide the summer.