With huge anticipation and intrigue surrounding his free agency heading into this summer, LeBron James has finally made a decision on his future. 

It didn't take the superstar long to do so as he dropped a huge bombshell on the day he officially became a free agent. 

James has agreed a four-year, $154 million deal to join the Los Angeles Lakers. 

This puts an end to 12 months of rumours and it will alter the entire landscape of the NBA as the best player on the planet takes his talents to the Western Conference for the first time in his career. 

In it for the long haul

The decision to pen a deal for four years shows that the 33-year-old is committed to LA and is likely to end his career with the franchise. 

There's no doubt that he would've taken his time and deliberated with those closest to him before choosing to join Los Angeles. 

After suffering a humiliating sweep in the Finals against the Golden State Warriors, the three-time champion told reporters that his family would have a huge influence on where his future lies. 

But he did reportedly consult others outside of his inner circle before coming to his final decision. One of those was Lakers legend, Kobe Bryant.

According to Lee Jenkins of Sports Illustrated, James had a phone conversation with the five-time champion before meeting with Magic Johnson. 

"He met with [Rich] Paul extensively Saturday and planned communication with the Cavs, Sixers and Lakers," Jenkins said.

"But he was clearly focused on the new home team. He talked with Kobe Bryant over the phone and invited Magic to his house in Brentwood. Late Saturday night, Johnson walked through the door."

The connection he had with Magic was ultimately the key to the King signing with the California-based outfit.

This shows why owner Jeanie Buss was right to hire the Hall of Famer as the team's president of basketball operations. 

There aren't many executives in the league, if any, that can land a secret free agency meeting with LeBron in his plush mansion in LA and get a commitment from him to join.

James has always looked up to Johnson and sees him as an idol for his endeavours both on and off the court.

In the end, the chance to work closely with him and add his name to a long list of NBA greats to wear the famous Purple and Gold jersey was too good to pass up. 

LBJ's task will now be simple; to take the team back to the playoffs and deliver another championship.

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