LeBron James’ future might see him test free agency and ensure a no-trade clause is added to a new contract with the Lakers.
LeBron James’ could see his current Lakers contract expire this summer if he opts out of the final year of the deal, leaving $51 million on the table. Brian Windhorst believes James will decline his player option and re-sign with the Lakers but with the addition of a no-trade clause.
“I think LeBron’s gonna opt out no matter what,” Windhorst said. “And the reason I think he’s gonna opt out no matter what is even if he just signs back for one year, the only functional way for LeBron to get a no-trade clause is to sign a new contract. If he extends the contract he’s in or picks up that option, and extends onto it, he can’t get a no-trade clause. And I think for a number of different reasons, LeBron would like, ask for, and probably be granted a no-trade clause.”
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LeBron is the oldest player in the NBA and will make history if he can be a 20-point contributor on the Lakers next season as a 22-year NBA veteran. He’s averaging 25.4 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 8.2 assists this season, as the Lakers have been one of the hottest teams in the NBA since March. Unfortunately, an incredibly competitive West means they still haven’t moved past No. 9 in the standings.
LeBron’s future is interesting, especially with Bronny James declaring for the NBA Draft recently. If Bronny comes into the Draft and is picked up by any team other than the Lakers with the hope that LeBron can be tempted into signing with them, the Lakers might have to fight off stiff competition to keep James on the Lakers.
LeBron James is Expected To Retire As A Laker
Given the incredible level of comfort James has reached in the Lakers uniform after his 6-year stint with the franchise, many experts believe there’s no realistic destination for LeBron to end his career outside of the Lakers.
Trusted Lakers’ insider Jovan Buha recently broke down the shape of a possible contract extension for James, giving the 2020 Final MVP a 3-year contract with the third year being a player option, giving James the flexibility to retire on the franchise.
“I do expect them to sign him to a 3-year max contract. There’s three things that can occur – One: Three-year extension. 2 years + player option. Two: Opt out and sign a 3-year extension without a player option. Three: Opt out and sign with another team. I do expect him and LA to come to an agreement. I do think it’s most likely LeBron ends his career as a Laker.”
The only thing that could hurt these plans is Bronny James and if the Lakers fail to acquire him. If the franchise wants LeBron to stay, the easiest way to make that happen is by getting Bronny and allowing LeBron to live out his dream of playing alongside his son.
It’s a summer of decisions for the Lakers, who also might have to convince D’Angelo Russell to stay. If the team makes a run in the playoffs with their current roster, the franchise will have to maximize their continuity and give James what could be the final contract of his NBA career.
