LeBron James is in line for a maximum three-year extension with the Los Angeles Lakers ahead of his impending free agency.
LeBron James could become the biggest free agent on the market if he decides to explore new opportunities this summer. He is anticipated to opt out of his $51 million player option with the Lakers, but all signs suggest he will likely re-sign with the franchise. According to Dave McMenamin, the Lakers already have a maximum three-year extension prepared for James.
“James has until June 29 to opt into the final year of his contract with the Lakers or become an unrestricted free agent. L.A. is committed to re-signing James and would offer the maximum three-year deal for which James is eligible to take him through his 24th season in the league,” sources told ESPN.
In terms of production, the price really can’t be disputed. James averaged 25.7 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 8.3 assists last year for a historic 21st season in the NBA. He was named to his 20th All-NBA Team, the most in NBA history with each selection coming consecutively. It’ll be hard for James to continue playing at the All-NBA level as he gets older, but it’s hard to doubt how impactful he is on the court for this team.
JJ Redick is already preparing to use LeBron James in his schemes
New Lakers head coach JJ Redick is already planning to integrate LeBron James into his schemes despite James’ potential free agency. Redick has openly discussed his intention to have James take more three-point shots in the 2024-25 season, considering his performance last season.
“With LeBron, you need to get his buy-in and discuss how he wants to play. We’ve joked about this, but he shot over 40% from three this season. I want him shooting threes. He’ll have three or four bursts every game where he gets out in transition and does things no one his age should be able to do, but he does it. It’s about figuring out his role in the half-court, putting him in different positions as both a scorer and facilitator. That’s what we’ll be discussing over the next few months.”
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