LeBron James' expensive new contract with the Lakers probably won't be his last

It’s been the summer of LeBron James in Los Angeles.

The Lakers have made move after move that all seem to stem back to him. They signed his podcast co-host on as the Laker’s new head coach. They drafted his son and signed him to a long-term deal second-round draft picks don’t usually get

And, finally, the Lakers reportedly locked James in on a new two-year max contract for $104 million, according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. The deal gives him the ultimate flexibility in finishing his career out with the Lakers.

But will this end up being James’ final deal in LA? That’s a valid question to ask. After all, he is turning 40 years old this year in December. No matter what we think about how good James still is, he can’t keep playing forever.

But that doesn’t necessarily mean this is his last contract. From the looks of this deal, it is more likely it won’t be.

Two key inclusions in the contract signal that he might be playing more: The included no-trade clause and the player option he’s getting in year two.

The Lakers included both in James’ deal, per Woj.

Free agent LeBron James has agreed to a two-year, $104 million maximum deal to return to the Los Angeles Lakers, sources tell ESPN. Deal includes player option and no trade clause. pic.twitter.com/gAEOmvfAzZ

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 3, 2024

Those things are key in LeBron determining his future with the Lakers moving forward.

The no-trade clause is self-explanatory. James won’t be leaving the Lakers unless he wants to leave the Lakers. The team has to get his approval before trading him and, if he doesn’t want to go anywhere else, he won’t. They’re locked in for better or worse.

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What’s more key here, though, is James’s player option in year two. This is a clear flex of power for James. He basically signed a one-year deal with the Lakers here, with the option to come back for a second year next season.

He could opt out and go elsewhere. He could opt out and sign another deal in LA for a longer term and more security. He could even opt out to free up money for the Lakers to grab another star should one hit the market next season. The choice is his.

Nothing about the possibilities at James’ fingertips point to this being his last deal. It says the opposite — he’s still very much in control of his future and plans to be around for a bit longer.

Best buckle in, Lakers fans. LeBron is staying at the wheel, whether you like it or not.