NBA: LeBron James pens contract extension with the Los Angeles Lakers

LeBron James has penned a two-year contract extension worth $85 million with reigning NBA champions, LA Lakers, according to Shams Charania of The Athletic.

James, who turns 36 later this month was named NBA finals MVP for the fourth time in his career as the Lakers beat the Miami Heat to claim victory in the six-game NBA playoff finals last season, claiming his fourth NBA ring.

He is heading into his 18th season in the NBA and third with the Lakers, having clinched his three previous titles during his time with the Cleveland Cavaliers and Miami Heat.

The Akron born star averaged 25.3 points, a league-high 10.2 assists, and 7.8 rebounds per game during the regular season and was joint second for triple-doubles (13) as he averaged a career-low 34.6 minutes across his 67 outings.

He later averaged 27.6 points, 8.8 assists, and 10.8 rebounds while playing a key role alongside Anthony Davis in the playoffs.

Asked whether the Lakers could repeat their championship success in the upcoming season, he said: “We can. I mean, it’s that simple.

“We absolutely can. First of all, it all starts with health. You have to have some luck. You have to have health. If we can stay healthy”.

The Lakers have strengthened their roster for the upcoming season with the signings of Dennis Schroder from the Oklahoma City Thunder, Wesley Matthews from the Milwaukee Bucks, Marc Gasol from the Toronto Raptors, and Sixth Man of the Year Montrezl Harrell from rivals the LA Clippers.

James’ new contract is set to run through to his 38th birthday in 2023.