Overview

• James signed a two-year, $101.35 million contract, about $3 million less than the maximum he was eligible for.
• The pay cut allows the Lakers to remain below the second salary apron, providing more roster-building flexibility.
• Potential targets for the Lakers include Gary Trent Jr. and Spencer Dinwiddie if they can clear cap space.
• James' new deal includes a player option and a 15% trade kicker, giving him control over his future.
• The Lakers' efforts to sign an impact player have so far been unsuccessful, missing out on Klay Thompson and DeMar DeRozan.