LeBron James Agrees to Deal with Los Angeles Lakers

Well, it’s official, LeBron James will be taking his talents to the West Coast as a Los Angeles Laker. The announcement was made through his agency, Klutch Sports Group, which declared the $154 million, four-year deal to the public.

According to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, the fourth year will be a player option, which will give James the choice to back out if he does not see himself sticking with the Lakers. This is the longest deal James has signed since he signed with the Heat for a six-year deal in 2010.

LeBron James by Keith Allison via CC 2.0

Leaving his home team as a free agent for the second time in his career, James has made it known many times of his intention to finish his career with the Cleveland Cavaliers. However, moving to the Los Angeles Lakers clearly shows he has no intention that his career is anywhere near over. Whether he ends up fulfilling this promise or not, one thing is clear – this four-time MVP and 14-time All Star has certainly made his mark on his home city.

In his Instagram story, James thanked Cleveland, with a photo from the Cavs 2016 NBA title victory parade, with overlaying text saying “Thank you Northeast Ohio for an incredible 4 seasons. This will always be home.” James will become the first player in NBA history to lead a postseason in scoring, then go on to switch teams the following season.

James made it clear that his choice to join the Lakers was made with his family in mind. He owns a home in Los Angeles, and has several business interests in the area that would be able to thrive during his time in Southern California.

This is a major move for the Los Angeles Lakers, who have made quite a big commotion, acquiring the most coveted free agent in the NBA. James will go on to join one of the youngest teams when weighing by playing time last season. The Lakers have an up-and-coming young core of players, including Brandon Ingram, Lonzo Ball, Kyle Kuzma, and Josh Hart. Lakers president of basketball operations Magic Johnson has made it clear that James is just another piece of the puzzle for the Lakers to regain their former glory they once held in the league. Time will tell if the big investment will be worth it.

Many of James now teammates have taken to Twitter to express their excitement for one of the greatest athletes to ever play basketball to have joined their team.

LAKESHOWWWW. @KingJames let’s go my brotha💪🏽 let’s rock

— kuz (@kylekuzma) July 2, 2018

Y’all really thought he was gonna pass up the greatest city in the world… #TheKingIsHere 👑

— Lonzo Ball (@ZO2_) July 2, 2018