The Los Angeles Lakers have finalized a multi-year guaranteed contract with Bronny James, the No. 55 pick in the recent NBA draft, sources confirmed to The Athletic’s Shams Charania.
James, selected in the latter part of the second round, is set to join his father, LeBron James, pending the elder James’ expected re-signing with the Lakers after opting out of his previous deal ahead of free agency.
“Bronny has earned this through hard work,” Lakers head coach JJ Redick stated during a press conference attended by ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, introducing James and fellow first-rounder Dalton Knecht.
Unlike first-round picks, who receive four-year contracts based on their draft position, second-round selections have flexibility in negotiating their deals.
During the 2023 NBA Draft, 15 players signed guaranteed contracts, while three were designated for overseas or G League placement, and 10 secured non-guaranteed two-way contracts. Notably, only three players drafted after pick No. 44 secured guaranteed deals.
James contributed to USC primarily in a reserve capacity during his sole collegiate season, recuperating from a preseason health concern. His season statistics included averages of 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists across 19.3 minutes per game.
