LeBron James Must Take $16 Million Pay Cut to Enable Lakers’ Chase of Mavericks Star

LeBron James has decided not to opt in this year and to enter free agency with the Los Angeles Lakers. After 2018, LeBron has not become a free agent yet, and it seems that he is doing it for the well-being of the team as well as himself. Reportedly, James is expected to look forward to a $162 million deal as a free agent from the Lakers front office for three years. It amounts to about $54 million yearly salary for the Lakers superstar. However, King James is making sacrifices to reduce his salary even more to get more talent for his team.

Since LeBron has opted out, the Lakers will be below the salary cup and eligible for a full mid-level exception. As per Spotrac insider Keith Smith, the Lakers have $49.9M under the first apron for 11 players, including Knecht. Now, even if they make it fifteen after signing a rookie minimum with Bronny[$1.1M], a non-tax MLE signing [$12.9M], and a veteran minimum signing[$2.1M], they’ll still have $33.9M left for LeBron James. Last time, Derrick signed a $2.7 million contract with the Dallas Mavericks for last season. Therefore, logically, the Lakers have the best shot to land the Mavs forward into the team.

Interestingly, Jones recently signed with Rich Paul’s Klutch Sports on June 29, reportedly as per NBA insider Marc Stein. It is the first change in his career during his nine-year NBA tenure. On top of that, it is quite close to free agency, which has raised eyebrows about his plans ahead. Even if Derrick lands with King James, he’ll add great depth to the team. That’s why LeBron James is ready to cut at max about $16.1 million from his maximum expected salary of $49.9 million for the team’s good.

Will the Mavs let go of Derrrick Jones Jr. to join LeBron James and Co.?

It seems like the Lakers are trying their best to land such an excellent 3-and-D wing like Derrick Jones Jr. Well, it’s complementary since Jones averaged 8.6 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 1.0 assists in 23.5 mpg. Moreover, he shot 48.3% from the field, 34.3% from three-point range, and 71.3% from the free-throw line this year. He recorded career highs playing under the finals runner-ups Dallas Mavericks. However, the Mavs GM Nico Harrison is in no mood to let go of Jones.

He has enlisted Derrick as “priority 1A and 1B” for resigning. Still, Jones’ move to switch agencies implies that he is looking for a big vault this time. If the Mavs front office does not offer him what he deserves, the Lakers will. Then it’ll not matter how much cap space Nico has emptied by trading Tim Hardaway Jr. for Derrick. Therefore, now the time and value of the offer from both teams matter as soon players hit free agency.

Overall, it might be the most sought-after free agency event for NBA fanatics. They will be closely monitoring if Derrick’s move was to get closer to LeBron through Rich Paul or if it was something else. Keep following the page to receive the latest updates on the events.

Before you go, do not forget to check out what Shaquille O’Neal’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato, has to say about the alleged Shaq and Kobe Lakers beef. Keep checking this space for more such updates.