LeBron James ready to accept pay cut to help Lakers land Klay Thompson

LeBron James has declined the final year of his Los Angeles Lakers contract, and is seeking a new deal with the team.

James' agent, Rich Paul of Klutch Sports, revealed that his client is prioritizing roster improvements.

"He is prioritizing a roster improvement," Paul told ESPN.

"He's been adamant about exuding all efforts to improve the roster."

Paul explained that James is willing to sign a deal below the maximum three-year, $162 million contract he's eligible for, which would allow the Lakers to use the full $12.9 million midlevel exception to sign an impact player like Klay Thompson of the Golden State Warriors.

However, if the Lakers fail to attract a top talent with the MLE, James will seek the maximum contract, according to Paul."