Following the end of their 2023–24 season, the Los Angeles Lakers have a lot of work to do this offseason. The Denver Nuggets booted the Lakers out of the playoffs in five games. After Game 5 of the series, their franchise star, LeBron James, didn’t commit his future to the Lakers. This has created a sense of uncertainty and intrigue around the Lakers organization. What could be LeBron’s next move?
LeBron James’ current contract with the Lakers has effectively ended. However, he does have a contract option worth $51.4 million for the 2024–25 season. Having said that, it still remains to be seen if LeBron exercises that option. At the moment, experts feel that James would opt for a new contract rather than exercise his player option. The 39-year-old is currently eligible for a three-year contract extension worth $164 million. And according to an NBA insider, it is this option that LeBron is leaning towards.
During the latest episode of ESPN’s First Take, Brian Windhorst suggested that LeBron James wouldn’t be taking any discount deals with the Lakers. If he decides to extend his contract, it’s likely going to be a max contract extension. Windhorst explained, “So historically, there is no negotiation with LeBron. It is Max or nothing. He obviously could have a change of heart, but the fact that the Lakers can pay him the $160 million,” while adding, “If there’s a concept of you getting LeBron for some discount, that’s historically been no go.”
This is a developing story…
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