LeBron James picks Lakers over Sixers, agrees to 4-year deal

However, he had endured frustration with the Cleveland Cavaliers, culminating in this season’s clean sweep defeat to the Golden State Warriors in last month’s National Basketball Association finals.

But why has he chosen the Lakers?

Only now, he very possibly could run into the defending champion Warriors (three titles in the last four years) in an early round of the playoffs.

None of this would have happened if LeBron James did not agree to come back home and lead the Cavaliers to the promised land.

First off, the money.

So, the Lakers have signed James to a four-year, $154-million contract.

Under normal circumstances, it could be troubling to sign a 33-year-old to a four-year contract, but there is nothing normal about LeBron.

And there were branding and lifestyle and maybe more acting opportunities to be had in L.A. The Lakers are certainly willing to do what it takes to make it work on the court, too.

His move to LA is set to help the team attract more star talent, giving the Lakers a greater chance of winning the Championship in 2019 – something they haven’t managed since 2010. Before returning to the Cavs, James had played four seasons with Miami Heat. After the King dropped that news on the world, the dominoes started falling across the National Basketball Association free agency spectrum. And so it has proved once again as they reel in the biggest fish of them all.

The massive Los Angeles market will also provide James with a grander platform for his philanthropy and social activism.

The decision was announced in a tweeted press release from LeBron’s agent, Rich Paul, and the agency Klutch Sports Group.

But it’s also fair to mention James did hold up his end of the bargain. Making eight straight trips to the NBA Finals this decade is a feat that will become grander as more time passes.

Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) reacts during the third quarter against the Golden State Warriors in game four of the 2018 NBA Finals at Quicken Loans Arena. Earlier this season, James was flattered when a Pennsylvania company paid for three billboards in OH urging James to come to Philadelphia, where the club has been abiding by a “Trust The Process” mantra while rebuilding.