The Los Angeles Lakers face many questions about their roster this offseason. Several key role players are free agents. One of their top scorers, Austin Reaves, has a player option that will be declined in search of a big payday. The biggest unknown is what will happen with all-time great LeBron James. He could choose to retire after 23 seasons, but if he chooses to keep playing, the Lakers will have to decide if they should bring him back or move forward without him. There might not be many top stars available in free agency or via trade, so bringing back James is a necessity if the Lakers want to compete for a title next year.
James Can Still Make An Impact
Despite the mileage on his body, at age 41, James showed he can still play at an all-star level. This past season, James displayed a willingness to play a supporting role behind Reaves and fellow superstar Luka Doncic. Throughout his career, James was the number one option, with the offense running through him. He admitted to being uncomfortable with deferring so much, but eventually flourished in the role, which helped LA play its best stretch of basketball. He now impacts a game through facilitating and timely scoring when needed.
It is a risky proposition to rely on James to keep producing, especially when he hasn’t been able to play a full NBA season in years. It will be difficult, however, for LA to find another all-star-level talent this offseason without using future assets in a trade or committing more money. James may be open to a pay cut if it helps upgrade the roster. If Los Angeles can convince James to take a pay cut, keeping him would be the best way to keep the most talent on the team.
The Lakers Can Resign Him And Still Improve
Key figures within the Lakers organization have already expressed interest in wanting James back. It will be a matter of figuring out the contract, as the Lakers or any other team cannot afford the $52.6 million salary he played on last year without ruining depth. He is still, however, one of the top players available in free agency.
James has expressed an interest in competing for a title every year going forward, which would make him a target for other top teams and make it difficult for the Lakers to keep him. Los Angeles does have bird rights, meaning they can go over the salary cap to resign him after making moves. So there is a path to bringing James back; there just needs to be a balance found that satisfies both parties.
Brings More Value To A Franchise
James joined a losing Lakers franchise, restoring them to playoff contenders and even winning a championship. He has set new NBA records and will undoubtedly finish his career recognized as one of the greatest players of all time. From a business standpoint, James elevates the Lakers’ brand as arguably the most popular player in the NBA. In what could be his final season in the league, there is a huge opportunity for a team to garner national attention and strengthen its financial power even more. James brings as much value off-court as he does on the court.
The Lakers Only Stand To Gain By Keeping James
The Lakers will benefit in a multitude of ways by bringing James back for his 24th season. LA keeps a co-star for Doncic without sacrificing long-term assets. They also maintain the leadership and playoff experience James brings. He has shown he can still contribute to winning basketball with a well-rounded skill set and is willing to sacrifice to win. The immense value he brings off the court alone can make the reunion worth it for the franchise. LA needs to keep the future Hall of Famer for one more run to have a successful season.
