
Why I think $150 million for ‘Monet’ is too high for the Lakers
The Lakers have reportedly signed two players to multiyear deals to help fill the void left by Kobe Bryant’s retirement.
Sources told ESPN.com’s Chris Mannix that Lakers President Mike Bynum is interested in bringing back Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal to the Lakers, and they could be in line to receive a max contract extension, with each player likely earning more than $150,000 per season.
Lakers President of Basketball Operations Magic Johnson is also interested in the Lakers.
Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak has said he would like to bring back Shaquilles two-time MVP, but would prefer to sign Kobe Bryant, a decision that will be final.
ESPN’s Adam Caplan says Kobe Bryant is expected to receive the maximum contract extension.
Bryant was signed to a three-year, $96 million deal with the Lakers last season, but it was reported that he’s seeking a four-year extension worth more than twice as much.
The contract also includes a player option for the 2019-20 season, which will allow Bryant to test free agency.
Bryant also has a no-trade clause, but the team is still pursuing a trade for the superstar.