LeBron James will stay with the Los Angeles Lakers next season after securing a two-year, $104 million contract, according to multiple US reports on Wednesday.
James, who will celebrate his 40th birthday in December, opted out of his previous contract with the Lakers last week. Analysts believe this move was strategic to create financial flexibility for recruiting new players.
The NBA legend was widely expected to renew his contract with the Lakers, especially following the team's recent draft of his eldest son, Bronny James. LeBron has expressed his long-held ambition to play alongside his son in the NBA.
Both ESPN and The Athletic reported that James’ new contract includes a no-trade clause, ensuring he cannot be traded to another team without his approval.
Entering his 22nd NBA season in 2024-2025, the four-time NBA champion and the league’s all-time leading points scorer previously led the Lakers to a championship in 2020. However, he has faced challenges in returning the team to the pinnacle of the sport since that victory.
