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LeBron James’ contract talks are the biggest storyline in the NBA. The four-time MVP is eligible to get a two-year $97.1 million deal, which the LA Lakers hope he will sign.
If he puts pen to paper, James’ final two years in Hollywood could be his last in the league. In some ways, he is in a similar situation to the late Kobe Bryant, who ended his career with the Lakers in 2016.
The LA Times’ Bill Plaschke appeared on the Dan Patrick Show and shared his thoughts on LeBron James’ contract talks with the Lakers:
“LeBron doesn’t have that connection here. I don’t think people even had signs he’s gonna break Kareem’s record. … I think they’re talking about giving a Kobe contract to a guy who doesn't have the Kobe magnetism or the Kobe connection that Kobe had here.”
It is widely believed that LA wants James to break Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s all-time scoring record while he is a member of the Lakers. It will be a massive accomplishment to add to the team’s already legendary resume.
But as great as LeBron James has been throughout his career, he’s never been adored the same way as the late Kobe Bryant.
The “Black Mamba” played 20 seasons with the LA Lakers, leading the team to five NBA titles. Despite suffering a torn Achilles towards the end of the 2012-13 season, he was given a two-year $48.5 million deal by team governor Jeanie Buss. The contract hampered the Lakers’ roster construction, but nearly everyone felt it was the right thing to do for the beloved shooting guard.
LeBron James may not have Bryant’s connection with the Lakers fans, but he’s their best chance of winning another title.
Also Checkout:- Kobe Bryant Net worth (Updated 2022)
LeBron James is taking his time with contract negotiations
“King James” has until June 30 next year to decide on his future with the Lakers. LA could lose him for nothing if he hasn’t re-signed by that point.
The prevailing thought is that James will sign. However, he’s forcing the front office to spend more to create a championship-contending team. At this stage, the Lakers are hard-capped and could only bolster the lineup if Russell Westbrook is traded.
The Lakers, so far, haven't been willing to attach two future first-round picks to grease the wheels in a Westbrook trade. They may ultimately be pushed to part with those picks if they want to keep LeBron James on the roster.
Re-signing “King James” is the Lakers’ best route to the title, but they may also have to sacrifice their future for that to happen.
