Lakers owner Jeanie Buss has raved about LeBron James, calling his contract a “bargain”. She also drew comparisons to Kobe Bryant and Magic Johnson.
James will earn 48.7 million dollars with the Lakers next season after signing a new two-year contract worth a total of 101.4 million dollars in the summer. “He’s our highest-paid player, but to me he’s still a bargain. He’s absolutely amazing,” Buss said on AM 570 LA Sports.
LeBron also had the support of his franchise in his decision to suit up for Team USA in the Olympics. “We always support our players in their decisions, whether they play for their national team or not,” Buss explained. James won the gold medal with the Americans in the summer and was named MVP of the tournament.
Buss draws comparisons to Bryant and Johnson
If it were up to Buss, the soon-to-be 40-year-old would earn even more. “Because we’re a salary cap league, there’s only a limited amount we can pay him. He brings us recognition in the league, but also internationally. He’s a huge star and a great leader for this team,” she said, drawing comparisons to Kobe Bryant and Magic Johnson, who ‘probably should have made double’.
James is entering his 22nd season in the NBA with the Lakers. Last year, he still put up 25.7 points, 7.3 rebounds and 8.3 assists and was the most important player on his team.