It is now official. LeBron James will stick with the Los Angeles Lakers for the long term. James opted out of his prior deal on Saturday. His agent, Rich Paul, told ESPN that Lebron James planned to restructure his contract with the Lakers so they could afford to sign an impactful player during free agency.
He said during All-Star Break that he wanted to retire as a Laker. LeBron said, “I am a Laker and I’ve been very happy being a Laker the last six years, and hopefully it stays that way.” Thanks to this new contract, he could be able to do so.
LeBron James’ New Contract Deal
This morning, LeBron James signed a 2-year, $104 million deal with the Lakers. The oldest active player in the NBA is worth the money, and there are no signs that he is slowing down. Last season, LeBron averaged 25.7 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 8.3 assists. He also notched his record-breaking 20th All-Star appearance last season.
The King joined the Lakers in the 2018-2019 season, leading them to the NBA Finals in the 2019-2020 season. His play alongside Anthony Davis led the Lakers to another championship and LeBron’s fourth ring.
The Perfect Way To End His Career On The Los Angeles Lakers
LeBron will play this upcoming season with his son, Bronny James. Bronny was drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers with the 55th pick in the NBA Draft. He’s planning to sign a multiyear guaranteed contract with the Lakers.
It wouldn’t be the first time a second-round draft pick has signed a guaranteed contract. The Denver Nuggets gave Jalen Pickett a guaranteed contract after last year’s draft. The Milwaukee Bucks gave their second-round draft pick, Chris Livington, a guaranteed contract.
Bronny and LeBron will be the first father-son duo to play in the NBA together. It’s rare for a father-son duo to play alongside each other in sports. It has happened in baseball and hockey, most notably in baseball with Ken Griffey Jr. and Sr.
What Could The Los Angeles Lakers Do Now?
After signing JJ Redick to a 4-year coaching deal, their main focus now is figuring out their issues at the guard positions. The Lakers’ roster was filled with plenty of big men but not enough guards to shoot from the 3 and effectively protect the perimeter. Bronny can be a 3 & D guard, but he still has room for improvement and is very young. They must decide on what to do with Austin Reaves and D’Angelo Russell.
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Justin is a writer and poet with nine years of professional experience covering sports, health topics, hip-hop events, and community matters. He’s a Richmond, Virginia native now based in Southern California. He has published two books under the pen name Jay Guevara and can be found on all social media @justinhisprime
