Top News

The Los Angeles Lakers have some major decisions to make this offseason.

Austin Reaves will most likely hit free agency, and LeBron James is also slated to pursue a new opportunity. Nevertheless, contrary to what it seemed months ago, it looks like the door isn’t shut on a potential return to the Lakers.

According to NBA insider Jake Fischer, the Lakers will gladly take him back if he wants to return. However, it might come with a somewhat surprising condition.

LeBron James may have to take a veteran’s minimum contract

“They’re open to a reunion, to a continued partnership between The King and Los Angeles,” Fischer said.

Per Fischer, the word at the NBA Draft Combine was that James will have to take a veteran’s minimum contract if he truly wants to play for a contender.

“LeBron would be best served to take a veteran’s minimum contract if he does care ultimately about winning another championship,” Fischer said. “He’s made plenty of money in his career.”

The new CBA makes it harder for teams to stack talent and big contracts. As such, not even the mid-level exception might be enough for a team to pursue James and field a competitive roster.

James has topped nearly $600 million in playing salary, so money shouldn’t move the needle for him at this point in his career. Ultimately, it looks like he may have to make a big decision. He can either be a superstar playing his final season for pocket change — for his standards — and pursue a fifth ring, or he can have another $50+ million deal with a less competitive team.