Jeanie Buss said LeBron James is still a valuable asset to the teamJeanie Buss and LeBron James (Image Credits: Getty Images)
LeBron James, often regarded as the greatest player of all time, has shown no signs of slowing down despite being 39 years old. The all-time points leader, who was recently criticized by an ex-NBA player, amazed fans by winning his third gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics. He was also awarded the tournament’s MVP after the conclusion of the Olympic basketball event.

Although this Olympics was likely his last, James will continue playing in the 2024-25 NBA season for the Los Angeles Lakers, as he re-signed in the offseason. Moreover, the Lakers’ controlling owner and president, Jeanie Buss, believes that James is still a valuable asset to the team.

When asked about the risk/mileage of James playing in the Olympics as the Lakers’ most significant asset, Buss suggested she would pay the 39-year-old star more if not for the salary cap.

“It was something that was important to LeBron and yes, he is our highest-paid player, but he’s still a bargain to me. He’s absolutely amazing. Because we’re a salary cap league, there’s only so much that we can pay him. He brings us the notoriety in the league but also internationally.” Buss said during a recent appearance on Petros And Money Show.

In the 2023-24 season, James delivered outstanding performances for the Lakers. He showcased exceptional skills against tough competition, helping lead the team to the Playoffs. Unfortunately, they were defeated by the Denver Nuggets in the first round of the 2023-24 NBA playoffs.


Buss Recognizes James As A Stellar Leader For The Lakers

Buss solidified James’ status as a major star and an excellent leader for the Lakers. She believes that the four-time NBA champion contributes to the community and inspires future athletes. Buss did mention that James deserves to be paid double, but the Lakers can only offer him the maximum salary.

“He’s a huge star and he’s a great leader for this team. What he does for our young players, what he does for the community. We’re proud to be partners with him. It’s the same as Magic Johnson and Kobe Bryant; because we’re in a capped league, they probably should have been paid twice what they get. But we can only pay him the maximum.” Buss added.

James showcased his dominance both in the NBA and on the international court. According to StatMuse, he averaged 25.7 points, 8.3 assists, and 7.3 rebounds in 71 games during the NBA 2023-24 season.

Additionally, The 39-year-old put on incredible performances at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, averaging 14.2 points, 8.5 assists, and 6.8 rebounds per game.

LeBron James Is Pissed Off At EA Sports, Unleashes Rant On Social Media After Experiencing Issues With ‘Madden 25’

LeBron James and Madden 25LeBron James and Madden 25 (Photos via Getty Images and EA Sports)
The Madden franchise is the most well-known football game and one of the largest sports video game franchises ever. Anyone can play it, from regular people to superstars and celebrities like LeBron James.

However, that means that when there’s a problem or glitch with the game, it can affect any player. Most people complain between themselves or in a group of friends, but LeBron has used his platform to highlight some of the problems in Madden 25.

@EAMaddenNFL Talk to me! Help me understand the changes Online H2H. Takes some of the fun away. -Seeing who you beat or lose to after game (record wise) – knowing your record -seeing what team Your opponent is playing with before the game starts. Asking for the people,” wrote James in a tweet.

Of course, that meant that everyone else on social media had to join in on the conversation about Madden 25.

Lebron it’s time to buy the rights to the nfl license and bring back 2k game day and fever. You got this!” one comment said.

I agree make madden more realistic n better n fun again,” another said.

It’s EA boss they not putting that much effort into the game,” a third said.

Maybe with LeBron James now complaining about some of the problems in Madden 25 will make fixing them more urgent.

Madden 25 Receives Mixed Review Upon Release

The Madden games have never been given amazing reviews. Usually, it’s a large mix of both positive and negative, but it’s always good enough for people to still buy the new version of it every year.

This year, it’s starting to look like that will be the same case. Review scores have already been released by some big names like GameSpot, which gave it a 6/10; Gamesradar+, which gave it a 6/10 out of five stars; IGN, with a 6/10; and Shacknews, at 6/10.