NBA
How to prevent LeBron James retiring from LA Lakers and the NBA
The King’s possible retirement following another playoff elimination could be delayed, some say, if three players are added.
LeBron James set off the alarms in the Los Angeles Lakers environment, because after the elimination of the Californian franchise at the hands of the Denver Nuggets, the King opened the door to a possible retirement.
LeBron solutions for NBA stay
“I have a lot to think about, to be honest. It’s not fun for me not being able to be a part of the NBA Finals. We’ll see what happens,” were the words of James following his team’s exit.
Given this doubt, rumors began to emerge about the potential players who could sign with the Lakers, and Quenton Albertie for Clutch Points highlights three who could arouse LeBron’s interest and who could possibly ensure we see the living legend continue for another season at least.
Three players to keep LeBron James playing
The first name on the list is Kyrie Irving, who will be an unrestricted free agent, but in order to convince him the Lakers will have to offer him a bumper million-dollar contract. Next to possibly provide an impetus to the Los Angeles team is DeMar DeRozan. He does, however, still have a contract for one more year with the Chicago Bulls and his salary is $28.6 million.
To make DeRozan’s arrival possible, the Lakers would have to trade players like Austin Reaves and Malik Beasley, plus draft picks.
The third player proposed to prevent any thoughts of retirement of James is Damian Lillard, who still has a valid contract for two more years with the Portland Trail Blazers and earns a salary of $94.3 million. In this scenario, Reaves and Beasley could also be offered, as with DeRozan, but Mo Bamba and two first-round draft picks would also likely be included.