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USA Today Sports Media Group
USA Today Sports Media Group
Sport
Sanjesh Singh

On this day in 2018: LeBron James agrees to sign with Lakers

During this time three years ago, LeBron James entered free agency after he declined his player option to join the Cleveland Cavaliers for another season.

James was easily the hottest name on the unrestricted market, and countless teams lined up to try to persuade him to sign with them.

From the L.A. Clippers to the Philadelphia 76ers to the Golden State Warriors and more, everyone wanted a meeting to convince James to make the switch.

In the end, James agreed to a deal with the Los Angeles Lakers that broke the internet.

James signed a four-year, $154 million deal to come over to the Western Conference for the first time in his career:

Though James’ debut season was filled with disappointing injuries, he bounced back the following season and helped lead the franchise to its 17th championship after Anthony Davis came via trade.

The 2020-21 season replicated the injury woes, but all eyes are now shifting towards next year since the Lakers will have more time to rest during the offseason.

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