There is little doubt that LeBron James will return to the Lakers next year, especially after his son Bronny was drafted. But how will his return come about? A bit of a surprise is a possibility.

The Lakers are now turning to free agency with important news this Friday: D’Angelo Russell has extended his lease for one season by activating his player option.

The Angelinos probably don’t want to keep him after disappointing seasons, which means a trade is in the works. And we shouldn’t forget the end of the James episode either.

Now that Bronny has been drafted by the franchise, it’s hard to imagine the star leaving this summer.

LeBron should continue his adventure in the City of Angels for a few seasons, the question is how exactly. Everyone now expects him to sign a max contract, but is he ready to make a financial effort?

LeBron ready to make a financial sacrifice?

Brian Windhorst discusses the subject in a recent broadcast on ESPN. Nothing very concrete at the moment but if James really wants to win the title, especially alongside his son, refusing a little money would not be the most improbable thing in the world. Especially if the Lakers can sign a quality player…

“If LeBron James takes less than the max, the Lakers could unlock the mid-level exception.

It’s not a million, but more like 10-12 million a year. I think he can take 38 or 39 million instead of 50 million a season. That wouldn’t be possible if the Lakers hadn’t drafted Bronny James.

But I wouldn’t be surprised if LeBron declines his option and waits to extend, just to see what happens on the market. He might refuse this plan, but he could at least listen.”

It should be noted that this plan is based on the fact that Russell refuses his option, but the leader has decided to activate it this Friday.

The idea remains interesting for James, who could delay on the market, allowing the Lakers to recruit heavyweights with a financial effort.

We imagine that the front office has already sounded him out on this subject.

LeBron James ready to make an effort at the Lakers? If he really wants this championship, he probably needs to be open to the idea. In any case, the Angelinos will be able to strengthen themselves with a possible trade of D’Angelo Russell from now on.