Kendrick Perkins Delivers Blunt Take on Recent LeBron James Pay Cut Rumors

Should LeBron James ultimately decide to accept a less-than-maximum deal from the Lakers as a free agent, ESPN's Kendrick Perkins believes it won't be because he wants to help the storied L.A. franchise for the future.

James, who recently opted out of the final year of his contract with the Lakers, is eligible to receive a three-year, $162 million max deal with L.A. this offseason.

Perkins believes LeBron would only consider taking a pay cut if it helped the team now .

"I'm willing to bet my left big toe... that LeBron James is not taking a pay cut or considering taking a pay cut for the Lakers future," Perkins began.

"It's for the now. LeBron James wants to win right now."

ESPN's Dave McMenamin suggested on Saturday that James may be willing to take a pay cut on his next deal if the Lakers manage to land an "established veteran playmaker" this offseason.

McMenamin listed James Harden, Klay Thompson and Jonas Valančiūnas as players who'd likely fit that description.

Related: LeBron James Willing To Take Pay Cut If Lakers Sign One Of These Three Players

James' agent, Rich Paul of Klutch Sports, told ESPN on Saturday that the 21-year NBA veteran is "prioritizing a roster improvement."

"He's been adamant about exuding all efforts to improve the roster," Paul said, via ESPN .

NBA free agency officially opened up on Sunday at 6:00 p.m. ET.

Teams are now permitted to negotiate with, but not sign, most free agents.

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