AP source: LeBron James signs 2-year contract with Cleveland Cavaliers

LeBron James signed a two-year, $42.1 million contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers that provides flexibility for the NBA’s biggest star with the league’s maximum salary expected to rise in the future. A person familiar with the negotiations said Saturday that James’ contract includes an option for the four-time league MVP to become a free agent next summer. However, it is strictly “a business deal,” according to the source. By only signing for two years, James can get another contract with the Cavs before the 2016-17 season when a new television deal is expected to push the maximum contract higher. The max contract for next season is $20.7 million. Until this deal, James had never been the highest-paid player on his team in 11 seasons as a pro. ESPN.com first reported the deal for James. – AP