“Three-Year Max Deal with Trade Veto! Does LeBron, Aged 39, Still Command Such Influence?”
ESPN reporter Brian Windhorst has weighed in on the future contract prospects of Los Angeles Lakers player LeBron James this summer. According to Windhorst’s analysis, LeBron is likely to stay with the Lakers for the 2024-2025 season, but he also suggests that LeBron will opt out of his current contract this offseason regardless.
Windhorst further asserts that LeBron’s potential decision to opt out of his contract likely stems from a clear reason: if he were to opt for an early extension or pick up the player option in his current contract, he would forfeit his ability to veto trades. The only way to retain trade veto rights is by opting out and signing a new deal with the Lakers. Discussions between LeBron and the Lakers may revolve around whether to sign a three-year deal, with the focus on whether the third year should be a team option, a player option, or fully guaranteed, adding an interesting dimension to negotiations.
LeBron’s performance this season has remained impressive; he has played in 68 games, averaging 35.1 minutes per game with stats of 25.4 points, 7.2 rebounds, 8.2 assists, 1.2 steals, and 0.5 blocks per game. His shooting percentages stand at 53.6% from the field, 41.3% from three-point range, and 74.6% from the free-throw line. Particularly surprising is LeBron’s exceptional three-point shooting this season, ranking 26th in the league, showcasing his prowess as a top-tier shooter. His facilitation and scoring stability continue to shine, a remarkable feat at his age.
If LeBron were not 39 years old, it’s likely the Lakers would offer him a long-term max contract without additional stipulations. However, due to the NBA’s Collective Bargaining Agreement rules regarding players aged 38 and above, he cannot receive a max contract exceeding three years. This may explain why LeBron might consider adding trade veto clauses and player options to his contract. For the Lakers, considering LeBron’s age, his current season’s performance remains strong, and there’s optimism for the next season, but questions arise for the 2025-26 and 2026-27 seasons. Ultimately, offering a max contract to a player of LeBron’s age is unprecedented, highlighting the extent of his influence in contract negotiations.
