Lakers News: Impact of Bronny James’ 4-Year Contract on LeBron and the Roster Revealed

Ever since Bronny James announced his appearance at the NBA Draft, the media has picked up headlines on the now-Lakers player. Former USC player and the Lakers’ no. 55th pick in the second round is hoping for a contract now. Notably, he was earning about $5.9 million in NIL during his brief stint in Pasadena. However, the amount might not be that much at the Lakers. He is a second-round pick, and they don’t often get guaranteed money. Rather, they sign a contract with little or no guaranteed banknotes. However, LeBron’s son seems to be looking for something greater than average for monetary compensation.

As per the Athletic insider Shams Charania, Bronny plans to sign a multiyear guaranteed rookie contract with the Los Angeles Lakers. However, their ambitious plan of Bronny does not seem practical and feasible to the Lakers insider Anthony F. Irwin. He did seem in awe of the scale of contract that Bronny is wishing for, as he called it “insane.” However, he did take cognizance of future aspects as he further commented on the update, “Making this decision on a 55th pick without seeing him against guys you’re going to have to move to make room for him just isn’t very wise.” Apparently, Bronny is projected to earn $1.2 million annually as an active member of the Lakers roster.

However, it is only possible if Rich Paul plays all the right cards for his player. Similar to Bronny’s case, the Denver Nuggets signed Jalen Pickett for $8.2 million with $5.8 million in guarantee. Notably, it was also a four-year contract, and the Nuggets picked him up in the second round of the 2023 NBA Draft. Further strengthening Bronny’s side, last year’s second round’s last pick signed a $7.6 million deal with the Bucks. Therefore, considering Bronny’s hype, guaranteed money is pragmatic. Well, the rookie James surpassed expectations as he landed a four-year $7.9 million deal per the Athletic insider Shams Charania on July 3.

How Bronny James’ multi-year is going to affect LeBron’s pay expectations?

LeBron had opted out of his player option this year to create space for free agents on the roster. However, Rob Pelinka and his front office could not land the most potential candidate, Klay Thompson, on the team. Since LeBron’s team was unable to achieve the feat, LeBron might be looking for a max contract from the team worth $49.9 million. So, looking from the perspective of a three-year max deal, LeBron is expecting to get a $162 million contract.

However, since Bronny is also going for a multi-year deal, it might cut a part of LeBron’s pay. On top of that, the Lakers front office has still got the opportunity to go with sign and trade for acquiring free agents. The opportunity that they missed can only be recovered through active young players to create floor spacing for the Laker’s offense.

Therefore, LeBron is not expected to get a significant cut from his salary even after Bronny James’ latest update. After all, King James would not want to miss the chance to play alongside his son in any condition. So, there is a chance that instead of being a basketball player, a father will accept a cut to create history by playing with his son in the league.

But before you go, be sure to check this video of Leonardo Armato’s take on the deadly duo, Shaq and Kobe.