In a significant move, the Los Angeles Lakers have secured their star forward LeBron James with a new two-year, $104 million deal. This agreement, which includes a no-trade clause, will keep James with the Lakers potentially until he is 41, marking yet another chapter in his illustrious career.
Details of the Deal
The contract, reported by ESPN, approaches the maximum salary James could receive from the Lakers. This strategic decision keeps the team just $45,000 under the second apron, allowing for some roster flexibility while avoiding key penalties. With this deal, James is expected to earn around $50 million in the 2024-25 season, pushing his career on-court earnings to an unprecedented $530 million, making him the first NBA player to surpass the $500 million mark.
James’s decision to stay with the Lakers was widely anticipated after he opted out of his contract for the 2024-25 season. This move not only secures his future with the team but also positions the Lakers to continue their competitive edge in the league.
LeBron and Bronny: A Historic Father-Son Duo
Adding to the excitement, the Lakers selected Bronny James, LeBron’s eldest son, in the second round of the 2024 NBA Draft. This selection sets up the potential for the first on-court father-son pairing in NBA history, an event that would be monumental for the sport.
LeBron James agrees to 2-year, $104 million deal to stay with Lakers
LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers have finalized a two-year, $104 million contract, confirming his stay with the team until he potentially turns 41. This deal includes a no-trade clause and represents the… pic.twitter.com/B3Vr3LCfJx
— SLD Edición Gnb (@SLDEdicionGnb) July 4, 2024
LeBron James’s impact on the court continues to be profound. Last season, despite turning 39, he played in 71 games — the most since the 2017-18 season — and became the NBA’s first player to reach 40,000 career points. His performance was stellar, averaging 25.7 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 8.3 assists per game, maintaining his status as one of the league’s top players even as the oldest active player.
Lakers’ Performance and Challenges
Despite James’s outstanding performance, the Lakers faced challenges throughout the season. They finished with a 47-35 record and were eliminated by the Denver Nuggets in the first round of the playoffs. Injuries and a struggling defense contributed to a tough midseason period, but the team rallied towards the end, securing a spot in the playoffs through the SoFi Play-In Tournament.
James’s longevity and performance are unprecedented. He is set to tie Vince Carter for the most seasons played in NBA history as he enters his 22nd season. His scoring average as the oldest player surpasses that of any previous oldest player, including Lakers legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.
Historical Achievements and Future Prospects
LeBron James’s career is decorated with numerous records and achievements. He led the Lakers to an NBA title in the 2019-20 season, adding to his four NBA championships. His accolades include 20 All-Star selections, surpassing Abdul-Jabbar, 20 All-NBA team honors, four MVP awards, and a place on the NBA 75th Anniversary Team. He holds the records for being both the youngest and oldest player to make an All-NBA team, showcasing his exceptional longevity and talent.
James’s impact extends beyond scoring. He ranks highly in multiple categories, including field goal attempts, minutes played, field goals made, assists, games played, three-pointers made, and steals. His presence on the Lakers is not just about his individual achievements but also about his ability to elevate the team’s performance and inspire his teammates.
LeBron James
Lakers’ Offseason Changes
The Lakers have made significant changes in the offseason, including a new head coach. Darvin Ham was replaced by JJ Redick, a former NBA player and ESPN analyst with no previous coaching experience. Redick’s appointment is reminiscent of Pat Riley’s unconventional rise from broadcaster to coach, leading the Lakers to four championships in the 1980s.
The Lakers have high expectations for the upcoming season, especially after their deep playoff run in the 2022-23 season. The team’s performance in the Play-In Tournament and subsequent playoff success have raised the stakes, with fans and analysts eagerly anticipating how the new coaching dynamics and James’s continued excellence will shape the season.
Looking Ahead
LeBron James’s new contract with the Lakers signifies more than just a financial agreement; it represents the ongoing pursuit of excellence and championships. As he continues to break records and achieve milestones, James remains a pivotal figure in the NBA, inspiring future generations of players.
The upcoming season holds great promise for the Lakers, with James leading a team poised for success. The potential for historic achievements, including the father-son duo with Bronny, adds to the excitement and anticipation. As the Lakers gear up for another competitive season, fans can look forward to witnessing more incredible moments and milestones from one of the greatest players in NBA history.