LeBron James has opted out of the final year of his contract with the Lakers, worth $51.4 million, to negotiate a new deal.
LeBron’s Decision and Rich Paul’s Statement:
Rich Paul, LeBron’s agent, explained that LeBron wants to improve the team’s roster. “He’s been adamant about exuding all efforts to improve the roster,” Paul said to ESPN. To help sign a new superstar, LeBron is even willing to take less than the maximum three-year, $162 million contract he could get.
DeMar DeRozan on the list of players LeBron James would feel good about taking less money to bring him to the Lakers; per @WindhorstESPN
“Now LeBron and Rich Paul met with the Lakers on this topic last week, and they agreed from what I am told on a short list of players that…
— BASKETBALL ON 𝕏 (@BASKETBALLonX)
LeBron’s Stellar Performance:
Last season, LeBron averaged 25.7 points, 8.3 assists, and 7.3 rebounds in 71 games—the most he’s played in six seasons with the Lakers. He shot 54% from the field and a career-best 41% from three-point range while making it to the All-NBA third team and becoming the first player ever to score over 40,000 points.
Upcoming Contract Negotiations:
Rich Paul aims to finalize a deal for LeBron in Los Angeles before Team USA camp begins. LeBron will join other stars in Paris for the Summer Olympics soon.
Drafting Bronny James:
The Lakers picked Bronny James with the No. 55 pick in last week’s NBA draft. Rob Pelinka mentioned that if everything works out with LeBron staying on their team next season, they could make history together in Lakers uniforms.
Fans are excited about this potential historic moment!
Father-Son Duo Milestone:
LeBron was very emotional when celebrating his son’s draft selection with a champagne toast after hearing the news from his team sources.
Impressive Offseason for Bronny:
During offseason drills at Draft Combine Chicago, Bronny showcased impressive agility and three-point shooting skills—his stocks rose significantly as he proved himself among top prospects.
Rob Pelinka praised Bronny: “First and foremost—a person of high character; second—a young man who works incredibly hard.” These qualities made him an ideal candidate for joining their developmental corps at Lakers.
