LeBron James Confirms Return to Los Angeles Lakers With Two-Year $104 Million USD Deal

LeBron James is returning to the Los Angeles Lakers on a maximum two-year deal worth $104 million USD. ESPN reported that it also includes a player option for 2025-26 and a no-trade clause.

With news of his son Bronny James joining the Lakers as a rookie, LeBron James confirms he is coming back for his 22nd season in the NBA. The maximum deal has put the Lakers $1 million USD over the league's new punitive salary second apron, which would in turn limit the team's roster flexibility. It is said that James' agent Rich Paul will discuss with the Lakers to see if there is a possibility of taking $1 million USD below the maximum. Bronny on the other hand has signed an agreement for a four-year $7.9 million USD deal with a team option on the fourth year.

At the end of the year, LeBron will turn 40. He is still considered one of the best basketball players in the history of the league. Currently he is the only player to reach 40,000 points and is fourth overall in assists, eighth in steals and three-pointers and third in free throws made. LeBron is a four-time champion and MVP.