Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James is considering the scenario where he may not team up with his son, USC guard Bronny James, in the NBA.
“LeBron is off this idea of having to play with Bronny. … There’s no deal made that it’s guaranteed that if the Lakers draft Bronny at 55, (LeBron) will re-sign,” said James’ agent, Rich Paul, in an interview with ESPN’s Jonathan Givony. “If that was the case, I would force them to take him at 17. We don’t need leverage. The Lakers can draft Bronny, and LeBron doesn’t re-sign.”
Bronny has completed workouts exclusively for the Lakers and the Phoenix Suns ahead of the draft. Givony reported that six teams were unable to arrange predraft workouts with the former Trojan.
Paul emphasized that James has not received preferential treatment, citing past instances where he limited workouts for clients to secure preferred team placements.
“I don’t care about him going to the Lakers, or Phoenix, or about what number he gets picked. It’s about fit,” Paul stated.
Regarding Bronny’s draft prospects, Paul indicated that James has likely concluded his predraft workouts. He mentioned interest from the Minnesota Timberwolves, Dallas Mavericks, and Toronto Raptors in the young prospect.
Meanwhile, LeBron James could potentially decline his $51.4-million player option for the 2024-25 season and explore free agency. Paul clarified that James would not consider signing with the Suns for a minimum contract.
James had previously expressed enthusiasm about playing alongside his son but has since softened his stance, stating that Bronny “will decide what he wants to do and how he wants his career to go.”
The Lakers currently hold the 17th and 55th picks in the NBA draft, while the Suns are slated to pick at No. 22.
