Lakers superstar LeBron James is eyeing to remain on the team for a few more years but would see massive contract expenses for the Lakers which raises concerns for the team.
James steered his side to a surprising comeback 116-112 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers by overcoming a 21-point deficit.
In the fourth quarter, he scored 19 points against his opponents across town and outscored them by 16 points. With his scoring and assists in the fourth quarter, LeBron alone was responsible for 30 of the Lakers’ 49 points. He finished with an incredible 34 points, eight assists, and six rebounds.
LeBron James seemingly wants contract extension
Recently, ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, who has been keeping a tab on LeBron James’ decorated career since his high school days, reported that James is “angling” to sign a nine-figure multi-year deal with the Lakers that would keep him on the team for another three years. This new deal would have the possibility of a whopping $180 million payout.
The Lakers are seemingly reluctant to keep him for his services for a few more years, despite his remarkable performance at the Crypto.com Arena. Gilbert Arenas revealed that the Lakers are “not too happy” about James’ trying to bag a contract extension during a recent episode of Nightcap.
According to Arenas’ little birdies, “They [Los Angeles Lakers] not too happy that he wanna come back two more years.”
The 3-time NBA All-Star explained: “It’s a lot of money…Right now, you know, his greatness basically has the Lakers handicapped in a sense. One of the things is you are in a bind. You can’t trade him, you look dumb. All hell breaks loose if you trade him. It’s one of those things you would rather have him retire.”
Unc & Gil discuss LeBron and his potentially new contract with the Lakers ‼️@ShannonSharpe @GilsArenaShow
NIGHTCAP IS LIVE COME KICK IT: https://t.co/qKace02mDO pic.twitter.com/R1qnEYVANJ
— Nightcap (@NightcapShow_) February 29, 2024
Will Lakers offer a new contract to LeBron James?
The Lakers certainly relied heavily on LeBron James in the outing. The team’s bench performance was miserable and had some gaps in the defenses as well. If they extend James’ contract, it could impact their financial flexibility which could restrict their ability to acquire valuable assets shortly.
James still has a lot of options to choose from if the Lakers are reluctant to extend his contract. A few weeks ago, the internet was enthralled with the news that LeBron was being recruited by the Warriors. Moving to the Bay Area also would allow him a handsome salary a chance to win his fifth title. It has also come to light that LeBron’s services are also being pursued by the Philadelphia 76ers.
