Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka confirmed as much at Saturday's press conference to announce Luka Doncic's three-year extension worth $165 million. The Lakers will be searching for a new co-star to pair with the superstar point guard. Pelinka hinted as to why the franchise has been prioritizing their financial flexibility.

Reports indicate that a former NBA champion who played alongside LeBron James with the Cleveland Cavaliers is interested in continuing his career with the Los Angeles Lakers.

By the time this season is done, LeBron will have earned $584 million from his on-court contracts in his NBA career. He'll be 41 years old by the time the season is over. " (It) begs the question," Marks writes. "Does the chance at a fifth championship outweigh another big payday?"