LeBron James has alerted the Cleveland Cavaliers that he will opt out of the final year of his contract with the team and headline the 2019 list of NBA Free Agents. In doing so King James will leave $35.6 million on the table for the 2018-19 season.
ESPN reports the opt-out does not signify that LeBron’s time is over in Cleveland, however, it does provide a greater opportunity for the Los Angeles Lakers to acquire one of the greatest to touch a basketball. It has been oft-rumored throughout the course of the NBA Season that James has eyed a transition to Hollywood but his hometown team is able to offer the most money at five-year, $207.4 million. Other teams that have a chance between the Cavs and the LakeShow include the Houston Rockets and Philadelphia 76ers.
Many believe the Lakers are planning a complete overhaul of their roster from last year and are looking to trade for San Antonio Spurs superstar Kawhi Leonard to pair with LeBron. It is believed that his presence on the roster would “clinch” signing the Cavs star. Also lingering in free agency is Paul George, who opted out of the last year of his deal with the Oklahoma City Thunder to explore his free agency options. It’s rumored the Lakers wish to add him to Leonard and James for a new big three.
NBA Free Agency officially opens Sunday at 12:01 EST and we will see how the dominoes fall. Other free agents this summer include Demarcus Cousins, Clint Capela, DeAndre Jordan, Chris Paul and more.
