The Los Angeles Lakers have had a tumultuous off-season, missing nearly all the crucial targets they aimed for as they try to build a championship contender around LeBron James. Struggling with payroll limitations, the Lakers' management faces the herculean task of maneuvering around the league’s restrictive salary cap norms.
The Payroll Dilemma
Currently, the Lakers are past the second apron, a payroll ceiling of $188.9 million, which severely limits their flexibility. A more ambitious plan to add DeMar DeRozan through a sign-and-trade deal would necessitate the Lakers' payroll to drop below the first apron of $178.1 million, making it a challenging proposition. Despite being under these constraints, the Lakers are exploring all options to bring in a third star to join LeBron and Anthony Davis.
In a surprising twist, LeBron James reportedly stated that he would consider a significant pay cut, approximately $20 million, to secure that elusive third star, highlighting his dedication and commitment towards winning another championship. "LeBron reportedly stated he would consider a significant pay cut of around $20 million if it meant securing that elusive third star," a close source revealed. This potential move could provide the necessary cap space to make significant acquisitions.
Major Moves Across the League
Meanwhile, the NBA off-season was rife with significant moves and notable contracts. Paul George's transition to the Philadelphia 76ers and Klay Thompson's signing with the Dallas Mavericks are just a few of the major transitions that have shaken up the league’s landscape. Klay Thompson agreed to a three-year, $50 million contract with Dallas, following a trade that saw the Mavericks send Tim Hardaway Jr. and Josh Green to Golden State in exchange for Thompson.
The 76ers have been proactive, securing a $204 million extension for both Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, while adding Eric Gordon and Andre Drummond to their roster. They also re-signed Kelly Oubre, signaling their intent to build a robust and competitive squad. Concurrently, the Clippers bolstered their depth by acquiring Derrick Jones Jr., Nic Batum, Kevin Porter, Kris Dunn, and Mo Bamba.
Elsewhere, the Knicks made a significant trade, giving up five first-round picks and a swap to bring Mikal Bridges aboard. They also managed to trade for Tyler Kolek in the second round, potentially adding depth and versatility to their lineup.
Strategic Extensions and Acquisitions
Detroit's future looks promising as they secured Cade Cunningham with a max extension worth $226 million over five years. Similarly, the Raptors locked in Scottie Barnes with a potential $270 million max extension, and Immanuel Quickley with a $175 million, five-year contract.
Orlando Magic extended Jonathan Isaac with an $84 million renegotiation and also signed Kentavious Caldwell-Pope to a three-year, $66 million deal. Meanwhile, the Golden State Warriors acquired De'Anthony Melton and Kyle Anderson and are reportedly interested in Buddy Hield, adding more intrigue to their team composition.
Trade Highlights
Another intriguing move came from Oklahoma City, where Isaiah Hartenstein joined from the Knicks on an $87 million three-year contract. The Thunder were also involved in a swap, trading Josh Giddey for Alex Caruso from the Bulls. On the other hand, the Cleveland Cavaliers managed to extend Donovan Mitchell's contract, securing his talents with a three-year, $150.3 million agreement.
The Brooklyn Nets, having traded Kevin Durant, amassed nine first-round picks and regained control of their own 2025 and 2026 picks, setting themselves up for a rebuilding phase that could have long-term benefits. Their strategic acquisitions and future planning suggest a clear, although painstaking, path ahead.
Veteran Chris Paul signed with the San Antonio Spurs for a one-year tenure worth $11 million, bringing experience and leadership to a young team. The Spurs also drafted Stephon Castle with the No. 4 pick and traded Rob Dillingham to Minnesota for long-term draft assets, building a foundation for the future.
In a significant trade, the New Orleans Pelicans acquired Dejounte Murray from Atlanta in exchange for Larry Nance Jr., Dyson Daniels, and two future first-round picks in 2025 and 2027, bolstering their backcourt and adding a dynamic playmaker to their lineup.
As the off-season progresses, teams continue to strategize and position themselves for the upcoming season. Despite the challenges, the Los Angeles Lakers' pursuit of a third star remains a pivotal storyline, with LeBron James' potential pay cut underscoring the high stakes and the unyielding chase for championship glory.