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That caps the three-year offer the Lakers can
make to James at a maximum $162 million. The first step is his
player option, although he can decline the option, test free
agency and opt for a short-term deal if that's his preference.
"We want to respect and honor LeBron's ability on June 29th to
make a decision about his contract," Lakers GM Rob Pelinka said
Tuesday.
A 20-time All-Star set to turn 40 on Dec. 30, James and new head
coach JJ Redick were co-hosts of a popular podcast "Mind the
Game" last season and clearly have a rapport with shared
thinking about key parts of player development and team culture.
Pelinka said Tuesday that James was "supportive" of the Lakers'
search but opted not to be overly involved, which is the
opposite of the approach taken by All-Star teammate Anthony
Davis.
Redick turned 40 on Tuesday and the first-time head coach
claimed he had only a brief conversation with James this week
after being offered the spot held by Darvin Ham the past two
seasons.
With maximum cap space available, the Philadelphia 76ers are
considered a looming threat to the Lakers if James opts out of
his contract. The Sixers are among teams showing the greatest
interest in James' oldest son, USC guard Bronny James, before
the 2024 NBA Draft on Wednesday, according to multiple reports.
--Field Level Media [© 2024 Thomson Reuters. All rights
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