LeBron James free agency: What kind of contract can Lakers star sign, and which teams may be interested

James is set to become a free agent for the first time since 2018

LeBron James free agencies tend to be seismic events. His 2010 Decision (capital-D) to leave the Cleveland Cavaliers for the Miami Heat changed the balance of power between players and teams forever. His 2014 decision (lower case-d) to return to the Cavaliers set up one of the most memorable championships the NBA has ever seen in 2016. His 2018 choice to depart Cleveland and head west to play for the Los Angeles Lakers resurrected a historic franchise after half a decade in the toilet. Year Salary 2024-25 $51,415,938 2025-26 $54,285,000 2026-27 $58,627,800 Total $164,328,738 Year Salary 2024-25 $49,987,718 2025-26 $53,986,735 2026-27 $57,985,752 Total $161,960,205 Year Salary 2024-25 $49,987,718 2025-26 $52,487,103 2026-27 $54,986,488 Total $157,461,309

Now, for the first time since 2018, James has the ability to become a free agent again. It is not a guarantee that he will. James has a $51.4 million player option with the Lakers that he can choose to accept or decline by June 29. Should he decline it, he hits the open market. So where is James going to play the 2024-25 season? How much money can he earn? Here's everything you need to know ahead of the James' possible free agency.