LeBron James is back with the Lakers, sealing a two-year, $104 million deal. At 39, the basketball legend’s contract features a no-trade clause and a player option, ensuring his reign continues on his terms, according to ESPN.
James and his agent, Rich Paul of Klutch Sports, are negotiating with the Lakers on a contract that could see James take about $1 million less than the maximum to help maintain roster flexibility. Despite this effort, James’ new deal has placed the Lakers just above the $188.9 million second salary cap apron, according to ESPN’s NBA front-office insider Bobby Marks. James, approaching his 40th birthday in December, is focusing on roster improvements as he negotiates his new contract, according to his agent Paul.
Last week, the four-time NBA champion opted out of the final year of his $51.4 million contract with the Lakers for the 2024-25 season, as reported by the New York Post. James decided to re-sign with the Lakers just one week after the team drafted his oldest son, Bronny James, with the 55th overall pick.
This move sets the stage for them to become the first father-son duo to play in the NBA simultaneously and on the same team.
“My last year will be played with my son,” James told the Athletic in 2022. “Wherever Bronny is at, that’s where I’ll be.
“I would do whatever it takes to play with my son for one year. It’s not about the money at that point.”
Despite this, 19-year-old Bronny James revealed he “never really has a thought” of playing alongside his father in the NBA.
“I’m … trying to get my name out for myself,” Bronny said Tuesday during his introductory press conference with the Lakers. “I just want to come in and get my work in and get better every day. I never really had a thought of me going to play with my dad. That’s always there to take part of, but it wasn’t a main focus of mine.”
Meanwhile, James’ new contract with the Lakers means at the age of 41 and 42, he will make more than Jordan did his entire career ($93.8 million), Si.com reported.
James, now entering his seventh season with the Lakers, is coming off a year where he achieved a career-best 41 percent shooting from three-point range. In his 21st NBA season, James averaged 25.7 points, 8.3 assists, and 7.3 rebounds per game.
The Lakers also made a coaching change by appointing James’ close friend and former podcast partner, JJ Redick, as head coach. Redick, who retired from the NBA in 2021, replaced Darvin Ham, who served for two years before his dismissal.
