"You're not getting LeBron James": Colin Cowherd drops bold take on Lakers star potentially leaving to play with son Bronny James
Agent Rich Paul recently hinted that LeBron James could soon become a free agent. The news has now re-sparked the narratives about James potentially joining a team that drafts Bronny James, with Phoenix Suns and Philadelphia 76ers topping the rumors. However, analyst Colin Cowherd immediately shuns the possibility, citing that a shift will add nothing to James' legacy.
"Winning another championship, for LeBron James, does nothing to his legacy and nothing to his net worth. He's a marketing machine, he's a billionaire. He got 2 in Miami, 1 in Cleveland, 1 in LA - another one in Phoenix is not going to change everything," Cowherd eliminated the rumors.
Even though the analyst claims LeBron James will opt out of his current contract with the Los Angeles Lakers, he believes it to be purely incidental and procedural to ensure a longer tenure in LA. With that, he advised NBA teams:
"You're kidding yourself. You're not getting LeBron," Cowherd said. "He's not leaving. He's posturing. It's procedural, he'll opt-out. He's got the Olympics, that'll add more to his legacy frankly. Make him more likable frankly than winning a title in Phoenix," he added.
Cowherd's confidence also stems from Bronny James' inclination to carve out his own NBA path, something that LeBron James has been advocating for a long time.
LeBron James will be eligible for the richest NBA contract if he opts out
LeBron James is currently midway through a 2-year, $99 million deal. Moreover, he has a $51.4 million option for the 2024-25 season. James' leaning towards a fresh contract comes purely through his extended playing days, and desire to don the purple and gold. Moreover, he is also eyeing a no-trade clause to cement his last days in the league, which can only be done through a new contract.
However, James could also land the richest NBA contract as he would be eligible for a three-year, $162 million deal upon opting out. The four-time MVP has until June 29 to decide on his next move. However, according to Paul, the conversations are yet to happen around the same.
"We're gonna do what we do every year. We're gonna evaluate the situation and we're gonna make the best decision," Paul said about James' future on Saturday.
With that, there is also a possibility that James could sign a smaller deal with the Lakers, which could give him his desired benefits from a new contract.