The King is Staying Put

LeBron made NBA history yet again this week. After signing his new deal worth $97.1 million, LeBron becomes the highest-earning player in NBA history earning $532 million in guaranteed money throughout his career. This new deal could be worth up to $111 million if the cap moves up during the 2023-24 season.

The signing puts the Lakers front office at ease as the 4-time champion and finals MVP was entering the final year of his current deal and there were lingering thoughts around the league that LeBron may test free agency. With him locked in for the next three seasons, Lakers fans and the front office can put that concern to rest. LeBron has always been vocal about his eventual goal to play with his eldest son, Bronny, who is expected to make himself eligible for the 2024 NBA draft. This contact gives LeBron a player option in the 2024-25 season.

Bronny himself made headlines this past week as he got fans and players alike excited with his poster dunk.

https://twitter.com/audacysports/status/1559358140080168962?s=21&t=63oeLPidZzI0dj3CE7qPlA

There were numerous reactions to the explosive play that ranged all the way from comparisons to his dad, to criticizing the play, in typical 'James' fashion. No matter, Lakers fans, and the organization are certainly excited at the possibility they have now to have Bronny suit up next to his father, like LeBron wants.

Looking forward to this season, LeBron and the Lakers are looking to have a bounce-back after failing to make the play-in tournament. During the 2021-22 campaign, LeBron averaged 30.3 points, 8.2 rebounds, 6.2 assists, 1.3 steals and 1.1 blocks per game despite turning 37 years old during the season. If he is able to continue to play at this level, which we all know he is, then LeBron will pass Kareem’s all-time scoring record in the purple and gold, something else the Lakers organization will surely be proud of. To go along with this, the Lakers will be happy if LeBron is able to continue getting numbers like this during his new deal, as hopefully team success will follow.

By: Anthony Ametrano and Matteo Ametrano