If LeBron James decides against an extension with the Los Angeles Lakers in August when he becomes eligible, sources tell Sam Amick of The Athletic that Jeanie Buss wouldn't see his desire to play out his contract as a reason to consider trading him.

James would be on a $47.1 million expiring contract should he decline the two-year, $97.1 million extension offer with the Lakers. 

James signed a two-year, $85 million extension with the Lakers in December 2020 shortly after winning The Finals.

Amick also reported last month that James is strongly considering playing out his contract to keep his options open for a 2023 free agency.