Paul Fu: The Lakers knew that James would execute the option, but we didn t want to renew the contract.

July 1, ESPN Lakers reporter Dave McMenamin further reported on a TV show the statement issued by his agent Ritchie Paul after James performed the player option.

McMenamin said: "I talked with Ricky Paul... He made it clear that the Lakers were not surprised by his statement or LeBron's decision to execute the player option. The Lakers have been operating under the assumption that LeBron will execute the player option. There is no discussion on early renewal, and the Lakers did not give an early renewal, but guess what? Klutch Sports and LeBron James did not ask for early renewal. Therefore, there is no tension in the matter on this matter.

"Ricci Paul not only informed the Lakers of the content of this statement in advance, but Luka Doncic's representative also received an early notice. Ritchie also told me that at this stage, he understood that the Lakers should put Doncic first, but as LeBron James' agent, he must also guarantee LeBron's best interests. ”