Miami Heat star LeBron James reportedly wants a max-level deal. James's desire for a big payday limits his free agency options to seven teams, which include the Los Angeles Lakers, the Dallas Mavericks and Miami.
No longer content with his reduced salary, James reportedly wants to cash in with his next contract. ESPN's Brian Windhorst reports James wants to join the ranks of the NBA's highest paid, which currently limits him to seven teams as options in free agency.
"Teams that contact James will be informed that he wants no less than the maximum salary number for next season, sources said. The max number is projected to be $22.2 million," Windhorst wrote on Monday. "... Currently, seven teams have the cap space to offer James a deal starting at $22.2 million: the Heat, Dallas Mavericks, Los Angeles Lakers, Phoenix Suns, Utah Jazz, Philadelphia 76ers and Orlando Magic."
Ignoring any loyalty James may have for Miami, the Lakers appear -- at least on paper -- to be the most attractive spot for him. In addition to the Lakers' huge market, the team has enough salary cap space to sign James and another big-name free agent, such as Carmelo Anthony.
Phoenix, albeit having a much smaller market, also has enough cap space to sign two big-name free agents.
Miami, though, seemingly improved their chances of re-signing James by trading up to draft Shabazz Napier, whom James called his "favorite" player in the 2014 draft.
Days after the draft, James reportedly met with teammates Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh to discuss their futures in Miami. ESPN reported Wade and Bosh both were considering taking substantial pay cuts to let James get the highest salary, something he's never had playing for any team in his 11-year career.
James hasn't scheduled any pitch meetings with any teams and reportedly will allow his agent, Rich Paul, to handle the opening salvo of offers.
Teams can officially begin pursuing James at 12:01 a.m. ET on Tuesday, the start of free agency.
