Sports columnist and commentator Skip Bayless believes that LeBron James will probably take a pay cut to continue with the Los Angeles Lakers next season instead of signing up with the Cleveland Cavaliers. James is currently in his 23rd NBA season and holds the all-time scoring record, along with four NBA titles and three Olympic gold medals, a feat that is difficult to replicate.
Skip Bayless Believes LeBron James Will Stay With the LA Lakers
Bayless has been a vocal critic, known for his unabashed opinions and takes on players and games. He brought the 41-year-old James under fire last year for picking up his player option, which allowed him to earn $52.6 million throughout the year. His continued demand for a high salary, comparable to that of younger league leaders, was something Bayless couldn’t wrap his head around.
The columnist felt that the veteran could have opted for a pay cut to improve the overall depth of the Los Angeles Lakers instead of putting limitations on the franchise.
“In year 23, at age 41. You couldn’t just take, I don’t know, 20 or 30 million to dramatically enhance the Lakers’ chances of winning now… LeBron [James], do you want to take what you’re worth or do you want to win at any cost?”
Recently, analysts have shared their take on the all-time leading scorer James’ chances of winning a fifth title. Some have suggested that as he enters unrestricted free agency, the Cleveland Cavaliers would be a good option.
Even ESPN’s Dave McMenamin and Tim Bontemps weighed in on James potentially receiving more money than ‘the mid-level exception’ if he gets traded for Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen on a sign-and-trade deal.
However, Bayless has a different view. He strongly believes James will stay in LA, now that he has adjusted to the lifestyle and golf environment, and will continue to embrace the secondary role he has taken on this season, even for significantly less pay.
“LeBron will play for the Lakers next year, for far less $, mid-level exception, accepting his 3rd-wheel role as he has of late. No way he wants to spend another winter in Cleveland after living (and playing golf) in LA. He won’t want the pressure of starting over in NY in Year 24,” he said.
READ MORE: LeBron James Breaks Own NBA Record with Massive 3rd Triple-Double of Age-41 Season
James is a co-primary scorer, often playing off what Luka Dončić or Austin Reaves create for him. However, his championship aspirations remain intact, and he understands the importance of allowing Dončić and Reaves time on the ball.
James was sidelined for a while due to left foot arthritis, but his return against the Chicago Bulls resulted in a 142-130 win, as he recorded 18 points, 7 rebounds, and 7 assists.
