LeBron James signs two-year deal with Philadelphia 76ers, includes trade kicker
LeBron James has officially signed a two-year, $8 million contract with the Philadelphia 76ers that contains a player option and a 15 percent trade kicker, but no no-trade clause.
LeBron James confirmed on Sunday that he has signed a two-year contract worth $8 million with the Philadelphia 76ers, according to ESPN's Shams Charania. The agreement includes a player option for the second year and a full 15 percent trade kicker, while a no-trade clause was not permitted because of the short-term nature of the deal.
James announced on social media that he chose Philadelphia because he believes the team offers the best chance to win a fifth NBA championship before he retires. During a recent episode of his "Game Over" podcast, his agent Rich Paul said the 76ers' acquisition of guard Jaylen Brown made the team the top destination over rivals such as the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat and Golden State Warriors.
Paul also noted James' existing relationship with 76ers guard Tyrese Maxey, a fellow Klutch Sports client, should ease his integration. He said James' presence will enhance the team's secondary playmaking and pick-and-roll actions.
The contract structure means James will have limited control over future moves, as it lacks a no-trade clause, a departure from the flexibility he has had in previous agreements.