Los Angeles Lakers main man, Lebron James, is turning 40 this year. Despite his age, he has a juicy two-year contract extension to $104 million with the franchise. Upon inking the deal, James surpassed Michael Jordan in on-court earnings to around $530 million. With this figure, he is the first NBA player to earn over the $500 million threshold. Management believes Lebron James is worth every penny of his contract extension with the LA Lakers.
Why Lebron James is Worth Every Penny of His Contract Extension with the Lakers
He is the All-Time NBA Scorer
He is averaging 25.7 points per game. The Lakers power forward delivered a sterling performance after playing 71 games in the 2023-2024 season. James is the first NBA player to reach 40,000 career points, another feather on his cap. His total career points to date is 40,474.
The NBA just witnessed an NBA player at this level at his age
Lebron James will be turning 40 on December 30, 2024. He still connected 54% from the field, 41% from the three-point range, and 75% from the stripe. The 39-year-old is fourth in assists at 11,009 dimes. He is currently sixth in games played (1,492). Age is not a factor with James. He is presently eighth in points beyond the ark at 2,410 and eighth in steals at 2.275.
His 20 All-Star selection is a record, as are his 20 appearances on the All-NBA team. He holds the records for being the youngest and oldest player, to make an All-NBA squad. Last season, he delivered an average of 7.3 rebounds and 8.3 assists per game – James is the oldest active player in the league.
James became the youngest to make the All-NBA when he was voted onto the team for the 2004-05 season. This past season, he became the first player aged 39 or older in what became an All-NBA campaign.
Continuing Struggles Despite James’ Performance
The LA Lakers capped the last season with a 47-35 tally after bowing out to the Denver Nuggets. Lapses in defense and injuries resulted in the Lakers’ early exit in the playoff rounds. Despite James’ effort to win the game, a one-man squad cannot bring them glory. A unit needs to be cohesive and every player must contribute to bringing in wins.
Adjustments Needed to Help the Lakers in Pursuit of the 2024-2025 NBA Title
To take a shot at the 2024-2025 Championship Crown, essential adjustments are on the line. First, the team needs a productive 3 and D Wing. The post is a three-point specialist and puts up a defensive stance against the best perimeter shooter of their opponent. The famous wing defenders of the NBA are Anthony Edwards, S.Gilgeous Alexander, Jalen Suggs, and Jason Tatum.
Second, Strategic Coaching. The Lakers already signed JJ Redick as the new head coach for the coming season. The team is optimistic and supportive of Redick’s stratagem and enthusiasm that could lead them to a title. Perhaps, enhancing the Lakers’ offensive thrust would be a title-getter.
Third, another Big Man. Anthony Davis lights up the paint when he is playing center. But the team’s performance ebbs when he is out to rest. Another big body is needed to augment Davis so he can play his power-forward post.
Fourth, More speed. Today’s NBA games need speed. A unit can’t win games playing at a slow pace. Take the New York Knicks for example. The team wins by attacking their opponents’ defenses and taking them so far last season. But they lack speed when they need to run.
The 40-year-old needs these adjustments to chase the elusive 18th NBA crown. With his newly-signed NBA contract extension, the veteran reigns overall and keeps his throne as the NBA’s oldest and most active player for now.
Main Image: Jason Parkhurst-USA TODAY Sports
