Klay Thompson Chooses Mavericks Over Lakers
The Lakers’ efforts to sign Klay Thompson ended in disappointment as the Mavericks secured him with a three-year, $50 million contract. Despite the Lakers offering $80 million over four years, Thompson was swayed by the Mavericks’ competitive edge and Texas’ favorable tax laws.
LeBron’s Pay Cut Targets All Signed Elsewhere
LeBron James had hoped to strengthen the Lakers by taking a pay cut to target Klay Thompson, James Harden, and Jonas Valanciunas. However, all three have now signed new contracts with other teams.
Internal Disagreement Within Lakers Management
Renowned journalist Brian Windhorst highlighted a growing rift between the Lakers’ management and LeBron James. The management’s focus on developing young talent contrasts with LeBron’s willingness to take a pay cut for immediate roster improvements.
“While the Mavericks made two trades to sign Thompson, what did the Lakers do? Rob Pelinka stated at JJ Redick’s appointment press conference that the Lakers would focus on developing young players and not trade away draft picks,” Windhorst explained.
“LeBron has expressed his willingness to take a pay cut to strengthen the roster, but the Lakers have shown little action. While I know LeBron likes staying with the Lakers, their current primary goals differ,” he added.
Current Roster Moves and Future Plans
So far, the Lakers have retained players like D’Angelo Russell and Christian Wood by exercising contract options and re-signed young talent Max Christie with a four-year, $32 million deal.
ESPN reporter Zach Lowe echoed similar sentiments, suggesting that the Lakers are preparing for a post-LeBron era by focusing on young player development, maintaining salary flexibility, and preserving draft assets.
Pursuit of DeMar DeRozan
With their initial targets signing elsewhere, the Lakers are now eyeing free agent DeMar DeRozan. If they fail to secure him, LeBron is expected to sign a three-year, $316.2 million contract with the Lakers instead of taking a pay cut.
Summary of Key Transactions and Future Targets
| Player | Team | Contract Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Klay Thompson | Mavericks | 3 years, $50 million | Chose Mavericks over Lakers |
| LeBron James | Free Agent | Potential 3 years, $316.2 million | Might sign without a pay cut |
| Max Christie | Lakers | 4 years, $32 million | Re-signed |
| D’Angelo Russell | Lakers | Exercised contract option | Staying with Lakers |
| Christian Wood | Lakers | Exercised contract option | Staying with Lakers |
| DeMar DeRozan | Free Agent | N/A | Lakers’ new target |
The Lakers are navigating a challenging free agency period, trying to balance immediate roster improvements with long-term planning. LeBron James’ willingness to take a pay cut reflects his commitment to winning, but the team’s management appears focused on building for the future.(JiliAsia)
