When asked about the NBA’s new TV deal worth $24 billion, NBA players certainly aren’t holding their tongues in regards to their contracts. Kobe Bryant said players are expected to take less money or be seen as selfish while the NBA is bringing in billion dollar deals. Kevin Durant said there should be no more max contracts, and LeBron James said they definitely don’t want to hear the owners crying broke during the next CBA negotiations. Russell Westbrook was asked his opinion as well and his were pretty similar to the others.
NBA: With New TV Deal LeBron James Could Break Michael Jordan’s Record & Make $34 Million In a Season!
While some thought he might bolt again, it became clear that LeBron James only signed a two-year deal with the Cleveland Cavaliers because he anticipated the NBA’s new TV deal and the subsequent rise in the salary cap. Of course it was a very smart decision as the NBA signed a nine-year, $24 billion deal with ESPN and Turner effective in 2016. While the following official cap numbers are not yet available it has been estimated that the cap will jump to $84 million for the 2016-17 season. As the league’s best player James is expected to get a significant contract, one that could break the record.
