52.6 million in one year! James decided to stay in the team! Lead the Lakers to compete for the championship

On the evening of June 29, James' agent Ritchie Paul told ESPN that James decided to implement the $52.6 million player option in the 2025-26 season and continue to stay with the Lakers. James' contract includes a trade veto. If the Lakers want to trade him, they must agree with James himself.

Ritchie Paul said: "James knows that the Lakers are preparing for the future... But James values ​​the current championship opportunities more." Lakers general manager Pelinka said: "The Lakers will devote all their efforts to strengthen the free market and will never give up until they achieve their goals." But the problem is that the Lakers only have 5.7 million mini-middle class available in one year at this stage.

2024-25 season, James played 70 regular season games, averaged 34.9 minutes per game, scored 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, 8.2 assists, 1 steal, 0.6 blocks, and 3.7 turnovers. His three shooting percentages were: 51.3%, 37.6%, and 78.2%. Although James did not make any statement, fans speculated that this was the last dance, otherwise he would jump out of the contract and sign 1+1.

This year's playoffs, James averaged 40.8 minutes per game, scoring 25.4 points, 9 rebounds, 5.6 assists, 2 steals, 1.8 blocks, and 2.6 turnovers. His three shooting percentages were: 48.9%, 35.7%, and 77.5%. The regular season real shooting percentage is 60.4%, and the playoff real shooting percentage is 60.1%. James' total salary so far in his career is as high as $580 million!

2025-26 season is James' 23rd season in his NBA career and his 8th season with the Lakers. James will become the first player in NBA history to play for 23 seasons. In addition, James has played 1,562 regular season games, only 49 games away from Robert Parish's historical record (1,611 games).

Pellinka said: "We are very clear that strengthening the center position is the top priority for the Lakers. This is also the direction we are most concerned about since the free market is opened." As of the time of publication of the leader, the Lakers are still waiting for Finney Smith's decision. Finney Smith is a $15.4 million player option next season, and he is considering trying out the free market!

If Finney Smith can be retained, how far do you think the Lakers can go next season?