LeBron James’ agent, Rich Paul, has informed the Cavaliers that James will not exercise his $35.6-million option for next season. As a result, James will become an unrestricted free agent at 9:01 p.m. Pacific time Saturday.
The Lakers will pursue James in free agency as they hope to reshape their roster and return to being a championship contender. Still, James could remain with the Cavaliers by signing a new contract with them.
The Lakers’ front office began in spring 2017 to prepare for this summer, working to free the team of damaging contracts signed by the previous regime.