By Mathieu S. | NBA Editor
A new signing is expected at the Lakers… and if possible in the coming days! This is the wish of LeBron James, who has given his team a few days to recruit. Rob Pelinka is under more pressure than ever.
It is impossible for the Lakers to start again with the same roster as last year. Many players have nevertheless decided to come back, like D’Angelo Russell, Cam Reddish or Jaxson Hayes, but the fans want change and fresh blood to fight with the big names in the Western Conference. This is also the case for LeBron James, ready to make a sacrifice for the good of his team.
LeBron James ready to help the Lakers
We must first remember that James will be a free agent this Sunday. He declined his player option, but he plans to sign a new deal with the Lakers for an as yet unknown amount. As ESPN’s Dave McMenamin explains, the King is willing to take a lower salary only if the Angelinos can sign an impactful player. This move will allow the franchise to use its mid-level exception, worth just over 10 million.
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“LeBron James is willing to take a lower salary for James Harden, Klay Thompson or Jonas Valanciunas.”
Knowing that James will be joining Team USA training camp in 6 days to start the Olympic Games, we imagine that he will want to settle this matter before then. The Lakers therefore have a few days to recruit a player, with a preference for Klay Thompson according to insider Marc Stein. The guard will also be a free agent and his departure from the Warriors is almost complete.
LeBron James “hopes” that the Lakers will be able to provide a better offer than the Mavericks for the services of Klay Thompson.
Despite his injuries, the Lakers hope that Klay can shine with his shooting and defense in the City of Angels. A very valuable profile for the franchise, but there will be competition. Note that if the Lakers fail to sign a player this week, James will ask for the maximum salary.
LeBron James is willing to do whatever it takes to make the Lakers recruit. With money and assets, especially since D’Angelo Russell’s decision, Rob Pelinka MUST act to improve the quality of the roster.
