LeBron James will miss the NBA Opening Day for the primary time in his NBA profession.
The NBA’s all-time main scorer is predicted to be sidelined for a minimum of three to 4 weeks as a result of sciatica in his proper aspect. LeBron James has reportedly been affected by this harm since July, and it has affected the 40-year-old’s complete offseason coaching schedule.
It is a blow to the Los Angeles Lakers, who’re hoping for an actual championship this 12 months. It is also a reminder that whereas James appeared immortal all through his profession, Father Time captures every little thing. That is the truth of counting on a star getting into his twenty third NBA season.
However whereas it is dangerous information for the Lakers, one in all their different stars may use his absence to not solely save the group’s season, but additionally make them tens of millions of {dollars}.
Austin Reeves didn’t signal an extension with the Lakers this offseason and is scheduled to change into a free agent subsequent summer season. He mentioned he has no intention of leaving LA, however desires to show he is value greater than the four-year, $89.2 million contract he was provided.
Reaves was the Lakers’ third star final season, together with James and Luka Doncic. He scored a career-high 45 factors in opposition to the Indiana Pacers, which could possibly be an indication of issues to come back.
James was out that evening with a sore ankle, permitting Reeves to step into an even bigger function. It was a job he excelled at. He confirmed he can take one other step towards NBA stardom if given the possibility.
The Lakers are at the moment on the lookout for gamers who can step up in James’ absence. Doncic can lead this group to the playoffs, however they’re going to want some firepower together with Doncic if they’ve any probability of profitable a title within the overlapping Western Convention.
If Reaves can persistently repeat final season’s success whereas James is out, he shall be elevated to a different stratosphere. He could possibly be an All-Star this 12 months.
Not solely would that be unimaginable for the Lakers’ title possibilities, however it may additionally doubtlessly earn Reeves tens of millions. He guess on himself this summer season by turning down a $90 million supply. And for Reeves, there could not have been a greater alternative to show himself.
Reaves is in search of a $30 million-a-year contract with the Lakers, which is why he turned down a four-year supply value $89.2 million.
But when Reaves can take one other step with out James on the courtroom this season, that aim may change dramatically. An All-Star look, for instance, may improve his worth to about $35 million to $40 million per 12 months as groups across the league deal with second stars.
As a result of Lakers’ cap restrictions, essentially the most the Lakers may pay Reaves is $30 million yearly. And if he performs in addition to he did final season, that will doubtless signal him. But when he reveals additional enchancment, they could should ask some powerful questions.
The Lakers must make vital roster modifications and sacrifice future flexibility to be able to pay Reaves greater than $35 million. It will additionally take actual confidence that he is usually a complementary star alongside Doncic for years to come back.
The Lakers face a troublesome dilemma. Whereas Reaves’ large 12 months provides them a critical probability at a championship, it may additionally harm their flexibility for years to come back. And if Reaves continues on this trajectory, NBA groups shall be keen to take an opportunity.
