The Los Angeles Lakers are set on retaining superstar LeBron James, reportedly preparing a lucrative three-year maximum contract offer to extend his tenure through his 24th NBA season, sources informed ESPN’s Dave McMenamin.
James’ prospective deal would total approximately $160 million. He faces a decision deadline of June 29 to either accept or decline a $51.4-million player option for the 2024-25 season.
Under NBA regulations, James, now 39, cannot sign a contract exceeding three years due to the Over 38 Rule, designed to limit lengthy commitments for players of his age.
The timing of James’ decision falls just after the NBA draft, where his son Bronny James is among the hopefuls aiming for selection. Bronny recently showcased his skills with workouts for the Lakers and Phoenix Suns, with additional interest reportedly from the Dallas Mavericks, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Toronto Raptors.
During the past season, LeBron James maintained strong performance levels, averaging 25.7 points, 8.3 assists, and 7.3 rebounds across 71 games. His consistent excellence earned him a place on the All-NBA third team for the third consecutive year.
Despite relatively healthy campaigns from James and fellow star Anthony Davis, the Lakers exited the playoffs prematurely, eliminated in the first round by the Denver Nuggets.
The franchise has since made coaching changes, parting ways with Darvin Ham and appointing first-time head coach JJ Redick, a primary target in their coaching search, according to general manager Rob Pelinka.
