LeBron James has reportedly agreed to a two-year, $97.1 million extension with the Lakers. The deal makes James the highest-earning player in NBA history and could keep him in Los Angeles for three more seasons through 2025. (The second year of the deal is a player option.) The contract comes as a bit of a surprise as James has at times in his career wielded the power of an upcoming free agency, and he had only one season left on his contract. Here are three thoughts on the extension.
A Westbrook Trade Has to Follow, Right?
It’s a little unclear why James would commit to the current version of the Lakers. Russell Westbrook lingers as a wrench thrown into the starting lineup, his style of play clearly not a fit with James and Anthony Davis. Meanwhile, AD is coming off an injury-riddled season. And the rest of the roster isn’t exactly proven. So for James to put this much trust in the front office, seemingly there would be some kind of agreement from management’s side about trying to construct a championship roster.
