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In a groundbreaking move that will see the first father-son duo play together in the NBA, LeBron James has agreed to a two-year, $104 million contract to remain with the Los Angeles Lakers. The deal, which includes a player option for the second season and a rare no-trade clause, comes on the heels of the Lakers selecting James' son, Bronny, with the 55th pick in the recent NBA draft.
The 39-year-old superstar, who will turn 40 in December, continues to defy age with his on-court performance. In the 2023-24 season, James earned his 20th All-NBA honor while averaging an impressive 25.7 points, 8.3 assists, and 7.3 rebounds per game. His shooting efficiency remained elite, with 54% from the field and 41% from beyond the arc.
By opting out of his previous contract and re-signing, James secured the no-trade clause, effectively quelling any speculation about potential trades. This move underscores his commitment to the Lakers organization, which he joined six years ago.
The Lakers' decision to draft Bronny James played a significant role in LeBron's choice to stay. This historic pairing will mark the first time a father and son have played in the NBA simultaneously, adding another remarkable chapter to James' storied career.
Despite a solid 47-35 record last season, the Lakers fell short in the playoffs, losing to the Denver Nuggets in the first round of the Western Conference playoffs. In response, the team made significant changes, including hiring former player and ESPN analyst JJ Redick as their new head coach, replacing Darvin Ham.
LeBron's new contract allows for flexibility, potentially enabling the Lakers to make roster improvements and bolster their chances in the competitive Western Conference. As he enters his 22nd NBA season, James continues to demonstrate his value both on and off the court, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest players in basketball history.
With this deal, LeBron James reaffirms his commitment to the Lakers while paving the way for a unique family dynamic in professional basketball. As the upcoming season approaches, all eyes will be on the James duo and their potential impact on the Lakers' championship aspirations.
