The Los Angeles Lakers are making a bold move, breaking NBA tradition by guaranteeing the rookie contract of second-round draft pick Bronny James, son of the legendary LeBron James. This unprecedented decision comes as LeBron is expected to return for his 22nd season with the Lakers, despite declining his option for the 2024-25 season.
According to The Athletic, Bronny James is set to sign a multi-year contract, solidifying his place on the Lakers’ roster. While LeBron’s return is anticipated, a potential hold-up lies in the Lakers’ pursuit of another seasoned veteran. ESPN reports LeBron has expressed his willingness to accept a lower salary if the team can acquire a high-quality free agent, such as DeMar DeRozan.
Bronny, a guard, showcased his skills in 25 games for the University of Southern California after recovering from a cardiac arrest incident during a summer workout. Despite being a fringe second-round pick, he was widely anticipated to join his father in Los Angeles. His pre-draft workouts were exclusive to the Lakers and the Phoenix Suns, highlighting his desire to play alongside LeBron.
Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka acknowledged the historical significance of this potential father-son pairing: “In the history of the NBA, there’s never been a father and a son that have shared an NBA basketball court and that feels like something that could be magical. We know, and have to respect of course, that LeBron has a decision (due by Saturday) on his opt-out … but if it worked out that he was on our team next season, NBA history could be made. And NBA history should be made in a Lakers uniform.”
Anthony Davis, the Lakers’ other superstar, has also expressed his support for Bronny’s arrival. “He’s very good defensively,” Davis told ESPN. “He can read the floor very well. I think he’s a really good playmaker. I saw him work out a couple times besides the (Klutch Sports) pro day and working with a big — his reads, reading the defense, making the right passes — that was really impressive to me. I think he’s going to be fine, man. Obviously it’s a lot of pressure on him with his dad being who he is.”
Bronny’s signing adds a layer of excitement to the Lakers’ upcoming season, potentially marking the beginning of a historic chapter in NBA history as father and son take the court together.
