Reports: LeBron James Agrees to Massive Extension With Lakers

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Was there any ever doubt that LeBron James wouldn't return to the Los Angeles Lakers?
Perhaps there was, after James recently became eligible for a massive extension for the next two seasons. Rumors circulated about his future and any potential motives.
Now, those can be put to rest. ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski first reported James would be returning to Los Angeles.
BREAKING: Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James has agreed on a two-year, $97.1 million contract extension – including a player option for the 2024-2025 season, @KlutchSports CEO Rich Paul tells ESPN. James had been entering final year of deal worth $44.5M.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) August 17, 2022
The two-year, $97.1M extension, which includes a 15 percent trade kicker, makes LeBron James the highest earning player in NBA history with $532M in guaranteed money. He surpasses Brooklyn’s Kevin Durant. pic.twitter.com/UUHMspiKZp
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) August 17, 2022
LeBron James’ deal is worth up to $111 million over two years based on salary cap rises. https://t.co/2SryOYbJMY
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) August 17, 2022
Acting as one of the greatest players of all time, James' price tag was never going to be low, and as the Lakers hope to again enter themselves in the championship race.
Now, at least in the immediate future, James will remain in Los Angeles.
The Phoenix Suns swept the Lakers 4-0 last season.
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Donnie Druin is the Publisher for Arizona Cardinals and Phoenix Suns On SI. Donnie moved to Arizona in 2012 and has been with the company since 2018. In college he won "Best Sports Column" in the state of Arizona for his section and has previously provided coverage for the Pittsburgh Steelers and Arizona State Sun Devils. Follow Donnie on Twitter @DonnieDruin for more news, updates, analysis and more!