LeBron James has officially re-signed with the Los Angeles Lakers, announced by the team late Saturday night. It was widely expected, with reports confirming on Thursday that he would stay with the team.
According to ESPN’s Bobby Marks, James will sign a two-year deal worth approximately $101.35 million, with the second year being a player option. This is slightly less than his maximum potential earnings of around $104 million. The slight reduction in salary helps the Lakers stay below the second apron threshold in total team salary, leaving them with about $45,000 in room below that line, as reported by Marks.
Exceeding the second apron carries significant roster-building limitations for the Lakers, including restrictions on salary aggregation in trades and loss of access to the taxpayer mid-level exception. Maintaining salary below this threshold also avoids the frozen draft pick penalty, which would have restricted the Lakers’ first-round pick seven years later if they had exceeded the apron.
James reportedly sacrificed a larger sum, potentially up to $20 million, aiming to retain flexibility for the Lakers to pursue signings or trades for top players. Despite efforts, the Lakers were unable to secure their primary targets, including Klay Thompson, Jonas Valanciunas, and James Harden, who were all unavailable by the time they pursued Thompson.
With 15 players under guaranteed contracts, including James and his son, Bronny James, the Lakers are currently unlikely to make major roster moves without clearing space. The deal with James ensures he receives nearly the maximum salary, a no-trade clause, and a 15% trade kicker if he waives the no-trade clause in the future.
This re-signing allows the Lakers to maintain continuity with an iconic player while strategically managing their roster and salary cap constraints for the upcoming season.
