LeBron James may be willing to accept significantly less than his current $59.6 million cap hold if it helps the Los Angeles Lakers strengthen their roster this offseason, according to Brian Windhorst.
The ESPN insider noted that the final value of a new contract could depend on the moves the Lakers are able to make in free agency and whether both sides remain aligned on the team’s direction.
“That amount may depend on what the Lakers might be able to do in free agency. It is possible there may be an impasse and LeBron would get to July 1st and not be happy with the Lakers and see what’s elsewhere.
“I do not want to say that it’s a done deal, but I think there is an intent from both sides to figure out how to continue this partnership.”
Windhorst also said James would be open to taking less money if the Lakers involve him in their offseason plans, similar to his willingness to sacrifice salary in 2024 while the team pursued Klay Thompson and Jonas Valanciunas.
Meanwhile, the Golden State Warriors are reportedly prepared to offer James their full non-taxpayer midlevel exception, valued at roughly $15 million, once free agency opens.
LeBron James Likely To Re-Sign With Lakers After Contract Talks Begin On Reduced Salary https://t.co/fximIY7nAo
— RealGM (@RealGM) June 17, 2026
