NBA free agency market has big news! The Lakers successfully extended the contract of LeBron James with a total two-year contract of up to $104 million. Not only does the contract include a player option, but it also comes with a trade veto, making James one of only two players in NBA history to have a trade veto, the other being the Suns' Bradley Beal.
James' performances last season were still impressive. During the regular season, he played in 71 games for the Lakers, averaging 25.7 points, 7.3 rebounds and 8.3 assists per game. In the playoffs, he averaged 27.8 points, 6.8 rebounds and 8.8 assists per game in five games, showing that even at the age of 39, he still maintains an amazing competitive form. For many fans and analysts, such stats are more than just numbers, but the best proof of James' dominance on the court.
James' contract extension with the Lakers is not only a huge breakthrough in terms of money, but also another milestone in his career. This contract extension means that James' salary at the ages of 40 and 41 will exceed Michael Jordan's entire career salary. Jordan has earned a total of $94 million in his career, and James will surpass that number in two years. This comparison not only reflects the changes in the NBA's salary structure, but also highlights James' influence and commercial value on and off the court.
What's even more amazing is that James will become the first NBA player in history to earn a total of $500 million in career revenue in the new season. James is currently at the top of the NBA career total salary list, followed by Durant, Paul, Curry and Westbrook, while Harden is in sixth place. Among them, Durant and Paul both earned nearly $400 million in their careers, while Curry, Westbrook and Harden also reached about $350 million. These stats not only show the achievements of these players in the basketball field, but also reflect their great success in the business world.
There is also a heartwarming story behind James's contract extension. The Lakers used the No. 55 pick to select James' son Bronny in this draft and signed Bronny to a multi-year contract yesterday. Immediately afterwards, James also chose to renew his contract with the Lakers. For James, it is undoubtedly a great honor and happiness to be able to compete with his son at the end of his career. This also makes fans look forward to the future and look forward to the picture of father and son on the field.
James' new contract also includes a trade veto, which is another important guarantee in his career. Although he dropped the $51.4 million player option on his previous contract for next season, he was given more initiative with his new contract. There are very few players in NBA history who have the right to veto trades, which not only shows James' value on the court, but also shows his important position on the team.
For the Lakers, the successful extension of James' contract is undoubtedly a huge victory. James is not only the heart and soul of the team, but also an important sign of the team in the market. Lakers coach Darvin Ham said in an interview: "James is not only a great player, he is also a symbol of the Lakers. Renewing his contract is an important step in the future development of the team. ”
Fans have also expressed enthusiastic support for James' contract extension. A veteran Lakers fan wrote on social media: "James' contract extension is a guarantee for the future of the Lakers, and his leadership and experience are irreplaceable. Another fan commented: "Seeing James and Bronny on the court together will be the best moment of my life, and thank you to the Lakers for that anticipation." ”
James' contract extension has a profound impact not only on the Lakers, but also on the NBA as a whole. As an iconic figure in the league, James' every move is in the spotlight. His decision to renew his contract not only brings continued attention to the Lakers, but also serves as a reference and inspiration for other teams and players.
During James' career, he has not only achieved countless brilliant achievements on the court, but also established a good image off the court. He is actively involved in philanthropy and founded the LeBron James Family Foundation, which is dedicated to providing education and life support to underprivileged children. James gave back to the community with his practical actions, established a positive public image, and became a role model in the hearts of many people.
James, now in his 22nd season, not only showcased his staying power and professionalism, but also equalled Vince Carter's record for the season. If James chooses to exercise his player option next year, he will be in his 23rd season and will be the No. 1 in history. This is not only a personal achievement, but also marks the end of an era and the beginning of a new legend.
For the Lakers, James' contract extension will further solidify their competitiveness in the Western Conference. Although the Lakers did not perform well in the playoffs last season, James' presence has always made the team a strong fight. Lakers management said they will continue to build a more competitive roster around James and strive for better results in the new season.
In the enthusiastic anticipation of fans, James's contract extension has also sparked extensive discussions. Some people think that this renewal is not just for money, but more for family and dreams. A fan commented on the forum: "James chose to renew his contract with the Lakers in order to compete with his son Bronny, and this combination of family emotions and professional dreams is moving. Another fan said: "James' decision reflects his love and loyalty to the Lakers, and I hope he can lead the team to another great achievement." ”
James' career has been full of glory and challenges, not only has he won numerous honors on the court, but he is also constantly breaking through and writing new legends. Since entering the NBA in 2003, James has experienced numerous challenges and adversities, but he has always earned the respect of fans and peers with his tenacity and outstanding performance.
Under James' leadership, the Lakers are bound to have more exciting moments in the coming season. Whether it's every game of the regular season or every fight in the playoffs, James will continue to use his strength and intelligence to fight for the team's victory. For Lakers fans, it is undoubtedly a great blessing and happiness to be able to continue to see James galloping on the court in a Lakers jersey.
James is not only a great basketball player, but also a great leader and role model. His professionalism, family values, and sense of social responsibility have made him an idol and role model for many. Both on the pitch and in life, James has shown exceptional quality and charisma.
Over the next two seasons, the Lakers will continue to challenge for a championship under the leadership of James. James' contract extension not only injected new impetus into the team, but also brought endless anticipation to fans. Whether it's playing on the court with his son Bronny or aiming higher in the new season, James will continue to write his basketball legacy.