LeBron James, 41, Opens Contract Talks to Remain With Lakers
lebron-james-41-opens-contract-talks-to-remain-with-lakers
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James, 41, has begun negotiating a new contract with the franchise as the NBA free-agency period approaches, ESPN Cleveland’s Brian Windhorst reported.
Windhorst said on Wednesday that James intends to play a 24th season and is “going back and forth” with the Lakers’ front office. Free agency starts in 14 days, giving both sides a limited window to finalize terms.
The agreement’s value could depend on what other roster moves Los Angeles completes before the market opens. Windhorst added that, should talks stall, organizations such as the Cleveland Cavaliers are expected to monitor the situation closely.
The Lakers are the league’s only projected contender with sizable cap space. Other clubs would need James to accept the mid-level exception—roughly $15 million—to sign him, a pay cut league insiders view as improbable. James recently declined to say whether he would accept less money to re-sign in Los Angeles, indicating he will first evaluate the team’s offseason strategy.
Agent Rich Paul of Klutch Sports told reporters he has not yet discussed next year’s plans with James. The four-time MVP will consult with his family before determining his path, with the Lakers believed to be his preference.
The franchise must navigate the NBA Draft and free agency over the next few weeks, decisions that could shape both James’ contract and the team’s competitiveness next season.
Source: Lakers Nation
