LeBron James Walking Away From $162 Million Contract Could Be a Blessing for Lakers

As the Los Angeles Lakers head closer to the end of the regular season, concerns about their uncertain future continue to grow. The biggest question that the Lakers face is, “What will LeBron James do next?” LeBron has a $51.4 million player option for next season, which NBA Insider Brian Windhorst believes he will decline to add a no-trade clause in his contract. Reports suggest LeBron might be willing to sign a 3-year $162 million supermax extension this summer. Contrary to popular belief, however, LeBron walking away from that option could be a blessing in disguise for the Lakers.

There is no doubt that even at age 39, LeBron is one of the biggest superstars in the NBA. He singlehandedly has the ability to uplift any franchise and keep them relevant. But it is evident from LeBron’s 21-year career that having him on your team brings a lot of added pressure. It is hard for front offices to maintain autonomy with LeBron on their roster because he demands a certain level of say in the team’s decisions for building toward a Championship. LeBron’s frequent involvement in team decisions has even earned him the ‘LeGM’ nickname. If LeBron decides to test free agency instead of re-signing with the Lakers, Rob Pelinka and Co. will be relieved of the pressure to build a team that suits LeBron’s playing style.

The Lakers will need to keep LeBron happy if he stays. That could require them to give up several future assets. The same happened in 2019 when the Lakers traded several future stars, including Josh Hart, Lonzo Ball, and Brandon Ingram, to acquire Anthony Davis- whose versatility to score inside and outside stands to blend with James’ ability to pass and read the court. They were even forced to give up three first-round picks, further jeopardizing their post-LeBron era.

Is LeBron James a ticking time bomb?

“I don’t know when that door will close, but I don’t have much time left.” These were LeBron’s words after his 40-point performance against Brooklyn. LeBron is 39 years old and does not have many good years left where he can still contend for a title. One reason the Lakers could benefit from LeBron walking away from the $162 million contract is the “Win now mentality” that comes with him. This has caused the Lakers to make constant trades since acquiring him to build a Championship team as quickly as possible. Although it turned out well in 2020, the other seasons have been a major failure.

If LeBron stays and the Lakers fail to win a Championship in the next 2-3 years, he could retire and leave the Lakers in the dust. If the Lakers agree to LeBron’s potential no-trade clause, they will also not have many assets left to rebuild their team once LeBron departs.

LeBron’s presence will also bring the Lakers the added pressure of drafting his son Bronny. The USC guard entered his name in the 2024 draft earlier this month. And it is a known fact that LeBron wants to share an NBA court with his son before he retires. So, keeping him might force the Lakers to draft Bronny even if they do not wish to.

Even though LeBron and the Lakers potentially parting ways seems like a big blow to the Purple & Gold right now, it could hold its blessings.

Read More: Bronny James’ Draft Declaration Triggers Lakers Legend to Call for Change in NBA Rules