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Lakers rumors: NBA insiders think LeBron James should be paid whatever he wants, with caveats
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- Lakers rumors: NBA insiders think LeBron James should be paid whatever he wants, with caveats
Lakers rumors: NBA insiders think LeBron James should be paid whatever he wants, with caveats appeared first on ClutchPoints . Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here .
Following the recent playoff exit of the Los Angeles Lakers , analyst Kenny Smith dismissed the idea that the franchise has taken LeBron James for granted.
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Speaking on First Take, Smith drew from his experiences playing alongside Michael Jordan and Hakeem Olajuwon, emphasizing that true icons do not focus on minor perks or “cookies,” such as seat assignments on planes.
He argued that the Lakers have consistently made significant organizational moves to support James since his arrival in 2018, demonstrating their commitment to his tenure.
As James approaches the twilight of his career, discussions are shifting to his next contract.
According to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst and Tim Bontemps, league insiders believe there is “no playbook” for a superstar of his age.
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An Eastern Conference strategist pointed out that while LeBron remains a top-25 player whose on-court presence typically warrants a max salary, his age makes a traditional long-term deal unlikely.
With few teams possessing significant cap space, such as the Nets or Bulls , aligned with his competitive timeline, the Lakers find themselves essentially competing against themselves.
An Eastern executive suggested that Los Angeles should pay James “whatever he wants,” as long as it is a one-year deal that includes a no-trade clause and no player option.
This strategy would balance the financial benefits of ticket sales and television partnerships with the need for roster flexibility while the team looks to build around Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves .
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However, the dream of James reaching a record-breaking 25th season may be waning .
Insider Marc Stein recently revealed that while this milestone once seemed attainable, reputable league observers now believe that “one more season” is a more realistic and cautious forecast.
As the 41-year-old approaches what is presumed to be his 24th season, the focus is shifting from breaking longevity records to ensuring a memorable and impactful farewell.
Related: Lakers rumors: Marc Stein drops revelation about LeBron James possibly playing 25 seasons
Related: Dillon Brooks calls out Lakers’ Jarred Vanderbilt as ‘dumb NBA player’
