LeBron James’ future in LA was never really in doubt, even after he reportedly opted out of his $51.4 million player option for next season.
But after the Lakers drafted his son, Bronny, with the 55th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, any lingering doubt was immediately erased for James always said he wanted to play with his son. So all he needed was a new contract.
On Wednesday morning, that contract arrived as James has reportedly agreed to sign a new two-year, $104 million max deal to return to the Lakers.
JUST IN: LeBron James plans to sign a two-year, $104 million maximum deal to return to the Los Angeles Lakers, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. pic.twitter.com/0lkqafA0As
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 3, 2024
The 29-year-old James, who turns 40 on December 30th, could only sign a two-year deal due to a unique NBA salary cap detail referred to as the “over-38 rule.”
The rule limits teams from offering contracts of four years or more to players over 38. The age limit was previously 36 but in 2016, NBPA president Chris Paul successfully increased that age limit to 38.
LeBron’s deal also includes a no-trade clause and a player option next summer.
James is now the oldest player currently playing in the league and this season will tie Vince Carter for most seasons played with 22.
Last season he averaged 25.7 points, 7.3 rebounds and 8.3 assists, and the team went 47-35 while playing for former head coach, Darvin Ham. This year he will play under new head coach, JJ Redick.
