LeBron James is keeping his options open, possibly hitting free agency at the end of the season to see if he can end up teaming up with his son Bronny James after the 2024 NBA Draft. The Athletic’s Joe Vardon has reported that the Lakers will do everything they can to ensure Bronny is on the Lakers to help retain LeBron as well.
“If he declines a $51 million player option, James could be a free agent next summer. The serious health issue that befell his son Bronny over the summer and potentially delayed his entrance into the NBA Draft could be the single biggest factor affecting James’ free agency. He would want to be able to play on the same team as his son if it’s possible, but even if Bronny is in the draft (he intends to play at some point this season as a freshman for USC), most observers believe the Lakers will find a way to make sure that happens in Los Angeles.”
Bronny James’ expected return to the court is unknown as he is still recovering from the cardiac arrest he suffered in July. He was expected to be a first-round pick before his health issue and it’s unclear where he would rank on a big board with that in mind.
One would assume Bronny crashes down the board and is a relatively easy pickup in the second round. But if a team that wants LeBron badly picks Bronny up before the Lakers, it would complicate the situation.
An Anonymous Scout Also Claimed Bronny James Will Join The Lakers
An anonymous scout had spoken to HoopsHype in September when the situation with Bronny’s health was still unclear. The scout already informed the world of the Lakers’ intentions of pursuing Bronny.
“If the Lakers get a pick, they won’t pass on him. He’s a decent player. He’s better than some guys who may get picked ahead of him. He’s solid, not spectacular. He knows how to play. He can handle the ball well enough. If you leave him alone, he’ll drill a three. He reminds me of Austin Rivers as a player, and he’s stayed in the league for over a decade.”
Bronny does have the skill set of an NBA player, with a relatively high defensive ceiling in particular. How his recent health issues complicate his scouting is something we’ll have to see as the NCAA season tips off, but it’s clear if no team in the NBA wants to take a risk on his health next year, the Lakers will do it.
LeBron James Gave A Health Update On Bronny
Basketball comes after health, and Bronny’s well-being is the priority for everyone right now. Thankfully, LeBron had a very positive update regarding Bronny’s health earlier this month.
“Bronny is doing extremely well. He has begun his rehab process to get back on the floor this season with USC. He had successful surgery and he’s up and up. It’s definitely a whirlwind of emotions for our family this summer but the best thing we have is each other. And we stuck behind each other and gave Bronny strength throughout the whole process. We are happy to see where he is today and look forward to seeing what his future still has in store for him.”
With the expectation to return to the court, Bronny is possibly still targeting joining the 2024 NBA Draft. He is a lock to play in the NBA next season, as even if he goes undrafted, the Lakers would sign him to make LeBron happy. His future is secure, it’s just a question of whether he declares this year after not playing or playing less.
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