Apr 30, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) controls the ball against Minnesota Timberwolves guard Nickeil Alexander-Walker (9) during the first half in game five of first round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images / Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James could significantly help the team if he were to take a pay cut this summer.

LeBron has until June 29 to officially opt-in (or opt-out), and he is expected to put leverage on the Lakers to improve the roster.

Apr 30, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves (15) moves to the basket against the Minnesota Timberwolves during the first half in game five of first round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images / Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

The Los Angeles Lakers may want to think twice before considering trading emerging guard Austin Reaves to another team.

In the playoffs, the Lakers struggled defensively. They also clearly needed a legitimate starting center. Both of those issues will need to be addressed. One major rumor that has