LeBron James and his future with the Lakers have been the focal point of fan interest as the 39-year-old is nearing the end of his contract. While there will be no shortage of interest from other teams to secure the living legend of the game, there are multiple factors influencing the impending decision.
Despite all the play in smoke and mirrors, recent reports have provided a measure of respite to the Lakers nation as words from the King James camp have been revealed.
LeBron James’ bonkers 9-figure contract demand
LeBron James may be 39 years of age, but he still possesses superhuman abilities to make and break records in the NBA. After being in the spotlight in the recent trade window with the Golden State Warriors and Philadelphia 76ers eyeing him, he is all set for an extension in his contract with the LA Lakers.
According to NBA Insider Brian Windhorst, who has observed King James from his early days in the sport, indicated that this is not James’ last season with the joint most NBA title-winning team. Considering the Lakers star’s desire to stay with the franchise Windhorst said, “First off, I think LeBron is angling to sign a multi-year deal in the offseason with the Lakers that will be nine figures. That will be even bigger than the deal he is on now.”
The forward signed a $99 million contract for two years with the franchise in August 2022 and has a player opt-out option for the next season (2024-2025). As per his prediction, the 4-time MVP will utilize his opting-out option to get the $180 million contract with his current team.
Windhorst also mentioned, “Now, whether or not he’s able to finish that deal, whether or not the Lakers want to give him a three-year contract and pay him $60 million when he’s 42 years old, that’s a different discussion.”
Fans react to LeBron’s reported future payday
Despite being the oldest active NBA player, James is averaging 25 points, 7.2 rebounds and 7.9 assists this season while shooting at 40.1% from 3-point range. He is also on the verge of reaching the 40k milestone with just 74 points remaining which was at a pause because of his recent injury.
At this point, the Lakers great is prepared for his contract renewal which might be in 9-figures. James has fallen prey to social media multiple times and this time too the NBA community reacted to his future plans. Here are some of the tweets that the fans shared on X (formerly Twitter) after knowing King James’ worth:
An NBA fan wrote, “Lakers need to let him move on.”
Another fan pointed out that the leading scorer of NBA can no longer win another title, saying, “The only thing he could win,money Rings no more.” The former Lakers star Shaquille O’Neal also mentioned the difficulties earlier.
“Lakers front office dumb enough to give it to him too,” commented another fan.
While some fans criticized it, one of the fans felt that the 39-year-old was worth the figure, saying, “Definitely deserves it earned not given !!”
Another fan seconded the thought, adding, “rightfully and respectfully so….”
Earlier James had wished to play with his eldest son, Bronny, in the same team which meant his son’s drafting could influence his decision. With the 19-year-old being removed from the 2024 mock draft by ESPN, James could choose to stay at the Lakers although the lottery pick for the draft is still pending.
