‣ LeBron James has until June 29 to decide on exercising his $51.41 million player option for the 2024-25 season with the Los Angeles Lakers or becoming a free agent. The Lakers could retain James by including a no-trade clause in his next contract, although players can waive such clauses.
‣ James was previously eligible for a no-trade clause with the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2016 due to his tenure in the league and with the team, despite not meeting the consecutive season requirement at that time. Currently, Bradley Beal is the only NBA player with a no-trade clause.
‣ If James opts into his contract, he could sign a two-year, $112 million extension with the Lakers starting August 18. However, under the NBA’s Over-38 rule, no team can offer him a contract for more than three seasons if he enters free agency. James’ potential future contract decisions are also contextualized by his age, turning 40 in December, and his family considerations, with his son Bronny James expected to enter the NBA Draft in 2025.
BREAKING: Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James has agreed on a two-year, $97.1 million contract extension – including a player option for the 2024-2025 season, @KlutchSports CEO Rich Paul tells ESPN. James had been entering final year of deal worth $44.5M.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn)
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LeBron James, the shining star of the Los Angeles Lakers, faces a big decision. By June 29, he must choose. Will he stick with his $51.41 million player option for the 2024-25 season? Or dive into free agency? The Lakers might sweeten the deal with a no-trade clause. But, remember, players can always say goodbye to that clause.
Here’s the thing about no-trade clauses. They’re special. You need eight years in the league and four with the team to even talk about them. Back in 2016, LeBron got one with the Cavs. That was after a three-year, $100 million handshake.
Oh, and guess what? BREAKING NEWS: LeBron’s all in with a two-year, $97.1 million extension with the Lakers. That includes a player option for the 2024-2025 season, says @KlutchSports CEO Rich Paul. This was when LeBron was wrapping up a deal worth $44.5M.
Despite only two seasons back to back with the Cavs, LeBron snagged his no-trade clause in 2016. Thanks to his seven-season stint from 2003-10, he met the requirements.
Right now, Bradley Beal of the Phoenix Suns is the lone NBA player with a no-trade clause. He had to let go of it to move from Washington to Phoenix. These clauses stick around until the contract’s end, even if a player decides to pack up and leave.
But, here’s a twist. You can’t slap a no-trade clause on contract extensions. So, no dice for LeBron in 2022 when he signed that juicy extension with the Lakers.
Mark your calendars for Aug. 18. If LeBron opts in, he could sign a two-year, $112 million extension with the Lakers. It’s his third time extending since 2018. But, there’s a catch with the Over-38 rule. No more than three seasons on a contract if LeBron hits free agency.
ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski hints at a two-year, $104 million contract for LeBron. It includes a player option for the second season. This way, LeBron could explore free agency next summer. Oh, and LeBron’s hitting the big 4-0 this December.
“I’m here for the long haul…I would never waive my no-trade clause.” That’s what LeBron said. He’s in it to win it.
And here’s a heartwarmer. LeBron’s eldest, Bronny, is eyeing the 2025 NBA Draft. The rules? One college year or 19 years old. LeBron’s take? “It’s up to him.” They’re exploring all options, letting Bronny lead the way.
For those dreaming of the NBA Draft, the clock ticks. Declare by April 27 at 11:59 p.m. ET. Change your mind? May 31 at 11:59 p.m. ET is your deadline.
