"LeBron will make $200 million more than Brady... in 2 fewer seasons" - Skip Bayless' controversial take on "billionaire" LeBron James' contract extension, compares his lack of "winner's discount" to Tom Brady's
News of LeBron James agreeing to a contract extension with the LA Lakers has garnered a myriad of responses from the NBA world. Analyst Skip Bayless recently offered his opinion on the matter.
LeBron James became eligible for a two-year contract extension with the Purple and Gold in August. As a pivotal member of the Lakers roster, several fans were on edge as they awaited the superstar's decision.
While many were convinced that the superstar would take his time, LeBron shocked the world by agreeing to sign his extension this early.
Sources: Four-time NBA champion LeBron James has agreed to a two-year, $97.1 million maximum contract extension with the Los Angeles Lakers, taking him under contract through 2024-25 season.
Given the massive payday awaiting the King in his 20th and 21st seasons, LeBron will cross $500 million in guaranteed career earnings.
🤩
Here are the players with most guaranteed career earnings in NBA history! 💰🤩
After signing 2-year, $97M extension with Lakers, LeBron James has topped the list! 🙌👑
#lebronjames #kevindurant #stephencurry #damianlillard #nba https://t.co/1j1FyPjD0Z
In response to the news of the $97.1 million extension, Skip Bayless had a rather scathing review of James' character. Considering the impact this deal will have on the Lakers, Bayless said on Twitter:
'LeBron will make $200 million more than Brady ... in 2 fewer seasons! That's bc Brady took a winner's discount to make his team better. So did Tim Duncan his last 4 yrs: 10 mil, 10 mil, 10 mil, 6 mil. Billionaire Bron: almost 50 mil in Yr 20 & 21! Lakers: no shot. Congrats, King"
LeBron will make $200 million more than Brady ... in 2 fewer seasons! That's bc Brady took a winner's discount to make his team better. So did Tim Duncan his last 4 yrs: 10 mil, 10 mil, 10 mil, 6 mil. Billionaire Bron: almost 50 mil in Yr 20 & 21! Lakers: no shot. Congrats, King
Bayless compared James' situation to that of NFL legend Tom Brady. He has taken multiple pay-cuts over the years to allow his team to be competitive. Bayless highlighted Brady's dedication to his team as well.
Bayless also mentioned San Antonio Spurs legend Tim Duncan, who took a huge paycut to support his team.
However, LeBron hasn't done the Lakers a huge favor with regards to finances considering his salary.
How does LeBron James' contract extension affect the LA Lakers?
LeBron James' contract extension was one of the main storylines of the LA Lakers' offseason. This was put to rest when the superstar signed a new deal within a fortnight of becoming eligible for it.
But there is a catch.
Unfortunately, it does a lot of damage to the team down the line. James' contract extension takes a massive toll on the team's total salary cap. Additionally, the decision to sign the contract itself is slightly enigmatic.
Many analysts have suggested that James could use the contract as leverage. He is keen to ensure the Lakers add a perimeter-shooter and bench depth in the offseason.
Considering that the superstar has already bought in to the team's future, trade negotiations may already be in the works.