The Los Angeles Lakers' off-season ambitions seem to have taken a hit as they find themselves unable to secure most of their key targets. The team's current payroll limits are a significant roadblock, with LeBron James' Lakers having crossed the second apron set at $188.9 million. This payroll limitation has left them with limited flexibility in pursuing additional talent.
One of the prominent discussions around the Lakers has been their interest in adding DeMar DeRozan through a sign-and-trade deal. However, to make this happen, the Lakers would need to work their finances down below the first apron of $178.1 million. In an unexpected twist, LeBron James reportedly expressed his willingness to take a substantial pay cut of approximately $20 million to bring in a third star. "LeBron reportedly stated he would consider a significant pay cut of around $20 million if it meant securing that elusive third star," the forward shared.
Movements Across the League
Meanwhile, the league has witnessed a whirlwind of player movements and contract extensions. Paul George's transfer to the Philadelphia 76ers is one such notable change. The 76ers are in a strong position, having secured extensions for Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, amounting to a whopping $204 million. Additionally, the team has bolstered their roster by adding Eric Gordon and Andre Drummond, while also re-signing Kelly Oubre.
The Clippers have been active as well, with derrick Jones Jr., Nic Batum, Kevin Porter, Kris Dunn, and Mo Bamba joining their ranks. On the other hand, the Dallas Mavericks made a significant move by trading Tim Hardaway Jr. and Josh Green to Golden State in exchange for Klay Thompson, who later agreed to a three-year, $50 million contract with Dallas.
In another league-shaking move, the Knicks traded away five first-round picks and a swap to bring in Mikal Bridges. They also traded for Tyler Kolek in the second round. The Oklahoma City Thunder have not been left behind, switching Isaiah Hartenstein to their roster for $87 million over three years and trading Josh Giddey for Alex Caruso from the Bulls.
The Golden State Warriors, too, are in the mix with their acquisition of De'Anthony Melton and Kyle Anderson. There's also chatter about Buddy Hield possibly joining the Warriors, further strengthening their lineup.
Contracts and Extensions
The off-season has seen a slew of contract extensions that reaffirm teams' commitment to their star players. The Cleveland Cavaliers extended Donovan Mitchell’s contract to a three-year, $150.3 million agreement. Similarly, the New Orleans Pelicans made a significant move by acquiring Dejounte Murray from Atlanta, trading Larry Nance Jr., Dyson Daniels, and two future first-round picks in 2025 and 2027 to the Hawks.
The Brooklyn Nets have also been active, acquiring nine first-round picks from trading Kevin Durant and regaining control of their own 2025 and 2026 picks. The Orlando Magic, apart from signing Kentavious Caldwell-Pope on a three-year, $66 million deal, have extended Jonathan Isaac in an $84 million renegotiation and extension over five years.
The San Antonio Spurs have signed Chris Paul for a one-year tenure worth $11 million and drafted Stephon Castle with the No. 4 pick. They also traded Rob Dillingham to Minnesota for long-term draft assets. The Detroit Pistons secured Cade Cunningham with a max extension worth $226 million over five years, while the Toronto Raptors extended Scottie Barnes, potentially worth $270 million, and signed Immanuel Quickley to a $175 million, five-year contract.
As we navigate through these numerous transactions and contractual agreements, it becomes evident how teams are meticulously planning and reshaping their rosters for the upcoming season. With the Lakers still hunting for their elusive third star and various teams completing strategic moves, the forthcoming season promises to be thrilling and full of surprises.