Lakers GM Rob Pelinka had a productive discussion with Rich Paul and James LeBron regarding the possible contract extension, although no new contract has been agreed upon.
Thursday marks the first day that James LeBron is eligible to go for an extension with LA. LeBron James, Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul, new head coach Darvin Ham, and Lakers vice president of basketball Rob Pelinka met in El Segundo to explore the prospect of LeBron renewing, even though it was expected that neither party would be in a hurry to sign a contract.
According to NBA reporter Dave McMenamin’s recent tweet:
LeBron James and his representative Rich Paul of Klutch Sports met with Lakers VP of basketball ops and GM Rob Pelinka on Thursday regarding James’ eligible contract extension. Paul told ESPN the discussion was “productive” and both sides will continue a dialogue.
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) August 4, 2022
“The optionality could be intentional. His eldest son, Bronny, is entering his senior year of high school, making him NBA eligible in 2024. James has repeatedly stated his desire to team up with his son on an NBA roster before he retires.”
LeBron desires to play with his son Bronny
LeBron may very likely consider accepting a two-year contract with a player option for the following year in order to keep flexibility for the time when his oldest kid, Bronny James, will be eligible for the 2024 NBA drafts, according to McMenamin. Bronny James is entering his senior year of high school to make it to the NBA draft in 2024. James LeBron has expressed his desire of playing with his son before he retires.
James LeBron has entered his contract’s final year with a worth of $44.5 million. He will be 38 years old during his current deal. According to NBA’s collective bargaining agreement, James aged 38 or above can sign a two-year extension.
James has the option to agree to an extension with LA until June 30, 2023, so this story may develop slowly. However, if LeBron decided not to sign a new contract before the start of the season, it might result in a Lakers-sized soap drama or, as McMenamin previously referred to it on a podcast appearance, a “circus” throughout the season.
“Let’s imagine he starts the year that way; now you have a circus on your hands for the entire 2022–203 campaign.”
Although the Lakers would probably like to completely avoid that possibility, the choice is not entirely up to them.
Comments