LeBron James intends to sign a two-year, $104-million maximum deal and will be back with the Los Angeles Lakers, Shams Charania of The Athletic reported Wednesday.
A player option next summer and a no-trade clause will be part of James’ new deal, sources told The Athletic.
James did not exercise his option to accept what would have been a $51.4-million contract for this coming season and instead is seeking a new deal with the Los Angeles Lakers, a person with knowledge of the decision told The Associated Press on Saturday.
It was expected that James would technically be a free agent. But it’s also been expected that he would stay with the Lakers.
The Lakers selected Bronny James — LeBron James’ oldest son — on Thursday in the second round of the draft, putting them in position to have the first on-court father-son duo in NBA history.
“He is prioritizing a roster improvement,” James’ agent, Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul, told ESPN on Saturday. “He’s been adamant about exuding all efforts to improve the roster.”
LeBron James is a four-time champion and is about $20 million shy of becoming the first player in league history to top $500 million in on-court earnings. Add in his many off-court ventures and investments, and his net worth has been presumed to be more than $1 billion for some time now.
He’ll turn 40 in December and will tie former Toronto Raptor Vince Carter this season in terms of most seasons played in NBA history; the 2024-25 campaign will be James’ 22nd in the league. He averaged 25.7 points, 7.3 rebounds and 8.3 assists last season — as the oldest active player in the league.
–with files from The Associated Press
LeBron James, one of the greatest basketball players of all time, has signed a new contract with the Los Angeles Lakers. The deal, reportedly worth $85 million over two years, solidifies James’ commitment to the Lakers and ensures that he will remain a key player for the team for the foreseeable future.
James, who joined the Lakers in 2018 after leaving the Cleveland Cavaliers, has been instrumental in the team’s success over the past few seasons. His leadership on and off the court has helped guide the Lakers to multiple playoff appearances and a championship win in 2020.
The new contract is a testament to James’ continued dominance in the NBA and his importance to the Lakers organization. At 36 years old, James shows no signs of slowing down and remains one of the most dominant players in the league.
In addition to his on-court performance, James is also known for his philanthropic efforts and activism. Through his LeBron James Family Foundation, he has worked to provide educational opportunities for underprivileged children and has been a vocal advocate for social justice issues.
With his new contract in place, Lakers fans can rest assured that James will continue to be a driving force for the team as they strive for more success in the coming seasons. His combination of skill, leadership, and dedication make him an invaluable asset to the Lakers and a player that fans can continue to rally behind.