LeBron James is reportedly on the verge of signing a new contract with the Los Angeles Lakers, while Paul George and Klay Thompson are both considering moves to new teams. As the NBA free agency period is set to begin on Sunday, the league is buzzing with anticipation.
According to sources familiar with the situation, James has declined his option for a $51.4 million contract for the upcoming season and is looking to negotiate a new deal with the Lakers. The terms of the contract are expected to be finalized soon, although the details have not been made public. George, a nine-time All-Star, has also opted out of his $48.8 million contract with the Los Angeles Clippers and is exploring his options as a free agent, with the Clippers, Orlando, and Philadelphia among the potential suitors.
These moves come just before the official start of free agency, with over $1.2 billion in contracts already agreed upon under the new rules allowing teams to negotiate with their players. Several players, including Scottie Barnes, Bam Adebayo, Pascal Siakam, and OG Anunoby, have already reached agreements on new deals that cannot be finalized until July 6.
Despite his free agency status, it is widely expected that James will remain with the Lakers, especially after the team drafted his son, Bronny James, in the recent NBA Draft. By potentially signing a new contract at a lower salary, James could provide the Lakers with financial flexibility to make additional roster moves.
James’ agent, Rich Paul, emphasized that the priority for James is to improve the Lakers’ roster in order to compete for another championship. With four titles under his belt and nearing $500 million in on-court earnings, James is focused on securing another ring.
As he approaches his 22nd season in the league, James continues to defy expectations as the oldest active player. With impressive stats from last season, including averaging 25.7 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 8.3 assists, James remains a dominant force on the court.
In the midst of these negotiations, another star player, Klay Thompson of the Golden State Warriors, is also facing a decision about his future. Thompson, a key player in the Warriors’ championship runs, may be considering leaving Golden State as a free agent for the first time in his career.
Warriors’ general manager, Mike Dunleavy, expressed the team’s desire to bring Thompson back but acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the situation. It remains to be seen whether Golden State can financially retain Thompson or if he will seek a new opportunity elsewhere.
The upcoming free agency period promises to be eventful, with marquee players like LeBron James and Klay Thompson potentially changing teams and reshaping the competitive landscape of the NBA. Fans will be eagerly awaiting the outcome of these negotiations as the offseason drama unfolds.
