LeBron James Opts Out to Seek New Deal With Lakers as D’Angelo Russell to Opt In

LeBron James (6) of the Los Angeles Lakers and D'Angelo Russell (1) talk during the first half against the LA Clippers in Los Angeles on April 5, 2023.(Harry How/Getty Images)

LeBron James opted out of the final season of his contract with the Los Angeles Lakers prior to Saturday’s, June 29, deadline.

The Lakers and James plan to work out a new three-year deal. James is eligible for a three-year, $162 million package.

James’ agent, Rich Paul of Klutch Sports, said his client will consider taking less money if it means Los Angeles can gain a $12.9 million mid-level exception to add a significant player.

“He is prioritizing a roster improvement,” Paul told ESPN. “He’s been adamant about exuding all efforts to improve the roster.”

James would have received $51.4 million for the 2024–25 season if he hadn’t opted out.

Los Angeles is interested in making sure James finishes his legendary career with the franchise.

Earlier this week, the Lakers selected Bronny James, son of LeBron, in the second round (55th overall) of Thursday’s NBA draft.

LeBron James, who turns 40 in December, has expressed multiple times that he wants to play with his son before ending his career.

LeBron James averaged 25.7 points, 8.3 assists and 7.3 rebounds in 71 games this past season, which was his sixth campaign with the Lakers.

James, a four-time MVP, became the first player in history to top 40,000 career points. He’s a 20-time All-Star and has career averages of 27.1 points, 7.5 rebounds and 7.4 assists in 1,492 regular-season games.

D’Angelo Russell to Opt In, Stay With Lakers

Los Angeles Lakers guard D’Angelo Russell plans to exercise his $18.7 million option to remain with the team, according to multiple reports.

Russell was acquired at the 2023 trade deadline and put up two strong regular seasons—including setting a franchise record last season with 226 3-pointers in 76 games—but sputtered in the playoffs both years.

Last offseason, Russell signed a two-year deal that included this player option.

Russell’s decision appears to be influenced by the Lakers’ recent change at head coach. Los Angeles parted ways with Darvin Ham—who had a sometimes tumultuous relationship with Russell—and hired JJ Redick.

“I love what JJ is about and I really see myself thriving under his guidance to help win at a high level,” Russell told ESPN Friday night.

Russell, 28, averaged 18.0 points and 6.3 assists last season. Drafted by the Lakers as the No. 2 overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft, he’s averaged 17.8 points and 5.8 assists per game with the Lakers (2015–17, 2023–24), Brooklyn Nets (2017–19), Golden State Warriors (2019–20) and Minnesota Timberwolves (2020–23).

He was selected to the All-Star team during the 2018–19 season, when he averaged 21.1 points and 7.0 assists with the Nets.