LeBron James had a chance to wrap up his career in Los Angeles and possibly join another title contender this summer. While he chose to opt out of his contract with the Lakers, he ultimately decided to sign a new two-year deal worth $101.355 million. This figure is slightly below the maximum salary, which helped the Lakers avoid the second tax apron and freed up the $5.2 million taxpayer midlevel exception for the team.

Despite earning nearly $49 million annually, this makes the 39-year-old LeBron the highest-paid player on the Lakers roster. He comes off a demanding summer, having led Team USA to a gold medal victory over France and earning the title of 2024 FIBA Olympics MVP.

Given the physical toll on his body and his decision to compete internationally, how does Lakers owner Jeanie Buss feel about him participating in summer events while also being the highest-paid, and oldest, player in the NBA?

In an appearance on the Petros and Money show, Jeanie Buss shared her thoughts on the matter.

“He’s incredibly competitive, and it really comes down to what he wants to do. We always support our players in their choices, whether they decide to play for their national team or not,” Buss stated. “For LeBron, playing was important to him. And yes, he’s our highest-paid player, but to me, he’s still a bargain. We’re a salary cap league, and there’s only so much we can pay him.”

She continued, “LeBron brings tremendous visibility to the league, not just in the U.S. but globally. He’s a massive star and an outstanding leader for our team. What he contributes to our young players and the community makes us proud to be associated with him. It’s similar to the impact Magic Johnson and Kobe Bryant had—you know, because…”

Buss emphasized the value James brings to the Lakers, both on and off the court, making his contract a worthwhile investment