LeBron James Takes $3M Pay Cut in $101.355M Two-Year Deal to Help Lakers Avoid Tax Penalties

Jul 7, 2024, 04:23 AM

LeBron James has taken a nearly $3 million pay cut to help the Los Angeles Lakers stay under the NBA's second apron, avoiding strict tax and roster penalties. This move brings the Lakers’ roster to 15 players and puts them roughly $1.1 million above the $188.9 million second apron. James' new two-year deal with the Lakers is worth $101.355 million, which is $3 million less than the maximum contract. The Lakers also signed Bronny James to a four-year, $7.9 million deal, with $3.113 million to be paid over the next two years. Additionally, LeBron's contract includes a player option, a no-trade clause, and a 15 percent trade kicker.