In a stunning development that’s sending shockwaves across the NBA, Oklahoma City Thunder point guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander** has reportedly turned down a massive **\$73.5 million offer** from the **Los Angeles Lakers**, who viewed him as the ideal successor to **LeBron James**.
Sources close to the negotiation confirmed that the Lakers were aggressively pursuing Gilgeous-Alexander this offseason, aiming to make a generational transition in the post-LeBron era. The franchise believed Shai’s versatile scoring, elite playmaking, and calm leadership made him the perfect face for their future.
However, Gilgeous-Alexander, who signed a **\$44 million rookie extension** with the Thunder back on **October 8, 2019**, has opted to **remain loyal to Oklahoma City**, where he has blossomed into one of the league’s premier guards and a bona fide MVP contender.
> **“Shai believes in what we’re building here,”** a Thunder front office source told reporters. **“This isn’t just about the money — it’s about legacy, leadership, and loyalty to the community and his teammates.”**
Gilgeous-Alexander averaged an impressive **28.9 points, 6.4 assists, and 4.8 rebounds per game** last season, leading OKC to a deep playoff run and establishing the Thunder as a legitimate Western Conference threat. His decision to turn down the Lakers’ offer underscores his commitment to bringing a championship back to Oklahoma City — something the franchise hasn’t achieved since the Kevin Durant-Russell Westbrook era.
### Steph Curry Also Declines Lakers Interest
In a parallel headline that adds to the Lakers’ ongoing struggles to secure a new face of the franchise, **Steph Curry** has also officially shut down any speculation of a move to Los Angeles.
> **“I have no plans beyond the Golden State Warriors,”** Curry said in a press conference earlier today. **“This is my home. This is where I started, and this is where I’ll finish.”**
The 4-time NBA champion and 2-time MVP remains steadfast in his loyalty to Golden State, reinforcing his legacy as one of the few superstars to spend their entire career with a single franchise.
### What’s Next for the Lakers?
With both Curry and Gilgeous-Alexander off the table, the Lakers now find themselves in an increasingly uncertain position. LeBron James, now 40, is expected to retire or take on a significantly reduced role in the upcoming season. The franchise is under pressure to find a marquee player who can carry the torch in the post-LeBron era.
While young talent and trade options remain, missing out on two of the league’s top guards may shift the Lakers’ strategy toward a longer-term rebuild — something fans in Los Angeles haven’t experienced in over a decade.
**Bottom Line:**
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s decision to reject a \$73.5M Lakers deal isn’t just a win for the Thunder — it’s a powerful statement of loyalty and belief in a team on the rise. Combined with Steph Curry’s continued allegiance to Golden State, it’s clear that while money talks, legacy and loyalty still matter in the NBA.
