LeBron James is poised to make a widely-anticipated free agent decision, but his Los Angeles Lakers future does not appear to be in much doubt.
James intends to decline his $51.4 million player option and become a free agent, according to Shams Charania of The Athletic. However, the widespread expectation is that he will simply negotiate a new deal with the Lakers.
Just In: Los Angeles Lakers four-time champion LeBron James intends to opt out of his $51.4 million player option for next season, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. The expectation is James will return to the Lakers on a new deal. pic.twitter.com/wQAbSAwCQD
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 29, 2024
There are absolutely no indications that James is considering going elsewhere, especially after the Lakers just drafted his son. This is simply his way of maximizing his contract leverage, a tactic he has consistently used for almost a decade. While it is not clear what his next deal will look like, it will most certainly be structured to his liking.
James remains as good as ever, averaging 25.7 points, 8.3 assists, and 7.3 rebounds per game last season.
