There are many reasons why LeBron James signed only a 2-year contract worth $42.1 million to rejoin the Cleveland Cavaliers, rather than signing a full maximum contract of $88 million over for years, according to Terry Pluto of The Cleveland Plain Dealer.

Here are just a few.

Although Mr. James is undeniably a basketball superstar, due to salary cap considerations, he never had a full maximum contract with the Miami Heat or the Cavaliers.

In most seasons, the salary cap rises between seven and 10 percent. Once a player signs a long-term deal, he is locked into it. The starting point for the maximum deal was about $18 million two years ago; now, it’s $20.7 million.

Sources close to James estimate that the starting salary for the maximum deal next season could be $22 million or more, so it makes sense to keep the contract options open.

James can opt out of his current deal when the season ends, and sign another two-year contract like the current one — with the starting point being the estimated $22 million.

Another reason for the shorter deal is that James has off-court endorsements that bring in earnings of between $50 million and $80 million each season, earnings that will continue to rise. So, if James wants to bet on the salary cap rising and his ability to stay healthy, he can do so, unlike some players who don’t have huge endorsement contracts.

When the new NBA television deal starts in 2016, the salary cap may take a huge jump. At that point, James, who will only be 31 years old, could cash in and sign the long-term maximum.

LeBron James developed this strategy with two Cleveland men — Rich Paul, his agent, and his contract negotiator/attorney Mark Termini. Both men have represented Cavaliers players.

James, who loves business and deals, believes he has been underpaid for years. He wants to have the greatest possible leverage and edge, and believes this is the deal that will deliver.