Former teammate Shumpert: LeBron would be willing to take a pay cut to win; money is something he can always make.

On February 21st Beijing time, former teammate Shumpert expressed that he has already noticed signs pointing to LeBron's next free agency destination. Shumpert did not claim to have insider information but offered his own perspective. This week, he made a prediction about LeBron's future that sparked widespread discussion.

During the Run It Back show, Shumpert said LeBron might accept a pay cut next season if it means joining an ideal team. “I believe that as long as things align, LeBron would be willing to reduce his salary,” Shumpert stated. “LeBron loves winning. As for money, he can always find ways to earn it.”

Shumpert certainly has credibility. From 2015 to 2018, he played alongside LeBron on the Cavaliers, including the 2016 championship team.

His remarks come as LeBron enters the final year of his contract with the Lakers (earning $52.6 million annually) and will become an unrestricted free agent this summer.

At 41 years old, LeBron is at a pivotal stage in his career, where every decision impacts his legacy and how his legendary journey concludes. To outsiders, a farewell tour in the 2026-27 season seems almost certain; the only questions are where and how.

Throughout his career, LeBron has rarely taken “discount deals.” Except for his early years with Miami, he has mostly earned market-level salaries during his 23-year career. But this time is different—his earning power no longer relies solely on team salary.

Recent reports indicate that LeBron can generate huge income during his farewell season from media, streaming rights, and other sources. This fundamentally changes how his salary is calculated.

Taking a pay cut could open more doors for him: either staying with the Lakers for another year or returning to the Cavaliers for a final chapter, as widely rumored.

Regardless of the choice, Shumpert’s main point is clear: when winning becomes the top priority, salary flexibility comes into play. For LeBron, anything is possible.