NBA superstar LeBron James has recommitted to the Los Angeles Lakers, signing a two-year contract that provides the team with increased financial flexibility. The deal, valued at $101.35 million, includes provisions that give both James and the Lakers strategic advantages moving forward.
According to The Athletic, James has agreed to a salary slightly below his maximum potential earnings. The contract’s structure allows the Pro-athlete to earn $48.73 million in the upcoming season, with a projected $52.62 million for the following year if he exercises his player option. By accepting this arrangement, James has effectively gifted the Lakers approximately $2.6 million in cap space over the two years.
This strategic decision by James and his representatives keeps the Lakers just under the NBA’s second apron threshold, a critical line in the league’s salary cap structure. By staying below this mark, the Lakers avoid severe restrictions on roster building that would have limited their ability to make trades and potentially frozen future draft picks.
At 39 years old, James continues to defy age-related expectations. His performance last season, which included averages of 25.7 points, 8.3 assists, and 7.3 rebounds per game. The inclusion of a no-trade clause in the deal ensures James has control over his playing future, while the player option for the 2025-26 season allows him to reassess his situation after the upcoming campaign.
Meanwhile, as LeBron James prepares to enter his 22nd NBA season, this contract could potentially help him break the league record for seasons played, currently held by Vince Carter at 22.