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Published 13:10 IST, December 21st 2020

LeBron James wants Kyle Kuzma to pay for their next team dinner after his $40M extension

After Kyle Kuzma and Los Angeles Lakers have agreed upon a $40 million contract worth three years, LeBron James hopes he will pay for their next dinner.

Reported by: Devika Pawar
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Last month, rumours spoke about Kyle Kuzma's place with the Los Angeles Lakers. The 25-year-old apparently wanted a "sizeable" contract with the Lakers, especially after the 2020 championship at the Orlando bubble. According to recent reports, Kyle Kuzma will be signing a $40 million contract extension with the team. 

Also read | Kyle Kuzma deactivates Twitter account after demanding to end "disrespect on his name"

LeBron James reacts to Kyle Kuzma extension with the Lakers

"KUUUUUZZZZZZZZZZZ!!! Congrats bro!!! Next dinner on you for sure!" James wrote on Twitter, clearly excited at the new contract. "Vino chronicles," he added, before adding two laughing emojis. Fans appreciated James' enthusiasm, some even joking about Kuzma turning away when it was his chance to pay. 

Earlier, James had also hyped his teammate up, deeming him as the player who will make a giant leap during the 2020-21 season. James' reply, which came amid various trade rumours, surprised many fans. While it was not a direct confirmation, NBA Twitter was convinced of Kuzma's stay with the team. 

The Lakers, for the first time in over a decade, have signed a rookie contract extension. The contract is a three-year $40 million extension, which includes a player option for the 2023-24 season. As per reports, the non-max rookie extension is being signed for the first time in the league. With this new contract, Kuzma could become an unrestricted free agent at 28 – which will be his prime. 

Also read | LeBron James hypes up Kyle Kuzma, believes he will take a 'Giant Leap' this season

Also read | Kyle Kuzma expecting a 'sizeable deal' from Lakers after championship win: Kyle Kuzma contract

Kyle Kuzma salary

With his new contract, Kuzma will earn $13.3 million per year. Kuzma is currently signed to a four-year, $8,650,178 contract, paying him $2,162,545 per year. By 2023-24, he will have earned $48,526,766 with the Lakers. 

Also read | Kyle Kuzma asks fans to share their expectations with Biden's US Presidency on Twitter

Kyle Kuzma stats

Kuzma averaged 12.8 points, 4.5 rebounds and 1.3 assists per game last season, shooting 43.6% from the field. He averaged 10 points this postseason, shooting 31.3% from the three-point range. While Kuzma stepped up when needed, he averaged career-low of 25 minutes. 

(Image credits: Kyle Kuzma, LA Lakers Instagram)

13:10 IST, December 21st 2020