· james is projected to have made $583. 5 million million in career earnings by the end of his new contract, though retirement — or an opt out of his contract following the 2024-25 season —. · basketball legend lebron james missed out on a potential $200 million contract due to a unique clause. · lebron james has officially opted in for the upcoming season, agreeing to a $52. 6 million contract with the los angeles lakers, espn reports. Lebron james signed a 2 year, $101,355,998 contract with the los angeles lakers, including $101,355,998 guaranteed, and an average annual salary of $50,677,999. As one of the nba’s most high-profile players continues his tenure in l. a. , all eyes are now on the franchise’s next strategic moves to bolster the roster. · along the way, james has also earned a record-setting amount of money through his nba contracts , making him one of the highest- paid athletes in league history. The athletic previously reported that james intended to opt. James, who is the nbas leading scorer, has been one of the leagues best players since. · lebron james plans to sign a two-year, $104 million maximum deal to return to the los angeles lakers, league sources said wednesday. Here is a closer look at his current deal, salary, and career earnings. James was widely expected to make the move where he gains the huge payday and, on sunday, confirmed that he would prolong his retirement by at least one year.