Sources from NBA teams have expressed difficulty in securing workouts with Bronny James.
Bronny James has worked out individually for the Phoenix Suns and the Los Angeles Lakers.
This is by design according to his agent, Rich Paul.
Agent's Strategy and Defense
Rich Paul defends that Bronny has not received different treatment than other players. He aims to find a team that values Bronny and push him there. It's a strategy that has been used in the past with other players, including Talen Horton-Tucker, Brandon Boston Jr., and Chris Livingston, all of whom landed guaranteed deals with few workouts.
The same approach has been applied to MarJon Beachamp and Darius Garland, showcasing Paul's consistency in handling his clients. Notably, the NBA's collective bargaining agreement now prohibits withholding medical information from teams, adding an extra layer of complexity to these negotiations.
Context and Developmental Needs
NBA teams are keen to see Bronny in different contexts than at USC. Rich Paul emphasizes the importance of understanding the context and developmental needs for Bronny, making sure his strategies are by design to ensure real deals for his client.
LeBron's Influence and Future Plans
LeBron James has previously expressed interest in teaming up with his son. However, recent statements suggest that LeBron hasn't thought much about playing alongside Bronny lately. Having completed his 21st season and poised to become a free agent, LeBron's focus appears to be more on his career trajectory rather than securing a spot alongside his son in the NBA.
Rich Paul reveals that LeBron is not fixated on playing with Bronny, a sentiment echoed by Bronny, who is focused on getting to the league rather than playing with his dad.
Potential Destinations for Bronny
According to Rich Paul, Bronny is likely done with workouts unless something unexpected happens. Rumors suggesting that LeBron will re-sign with the Lakers if they draft Bronny have been dispelled. LeBron won't re-sign with the Lakers just because they draft his son, nor is he going to Phoenix for a minimum deal.
Numerous teams have shown interest in Bronny, including the Timberwolves, Mavericks, and Raptors. The Mavericks' Nico Harrison has a good relationship with Bronny, while the Raptors could potentially draft him without a workout if they have a pick at 31.
Jonathan Givony notes that this strategic planning adds complexity to Bronny's draft experience, and the basketball world is watching closely to see where Bronny lands. Rich Paul emphasizes the importance of understanding the context. "This is nothing new. The goal is to find a team that values your guy and try to push him to get there," Paul states.
Paul's strategy involves setting clear expectations with teams interested in Bronny. "Bronny is the same as my previous clients. I got the word out early to teams that if you plan on bringing Bronny in, here's what you need to know: If you won't give him a real deal, there's nothing to talk about," Paul explains.
LeBron's intention to play with his son is not as definitive as once thought. "LeBron is off this idea of having to play with Bronny. If he does, he does. But if he doesn't, he doesn't," Paul reveals. He also dismisses any notion of a guaranteed plan tying LeBron's re-signing with the Lakers to Bronny being drafted. "There's no deal made that it's guaranteed that if the Lakers draft Bronny at 55, he (LeBron) will re-sign," he says.
"If that was the case, I would force them to take him at 17. We don't need leverage," Paul continues. "The Lakers can draft Bronny, and LeBron doesn't re-sign. LeBron is also not going to Phoenix for a minimum deal. We can squash that now."
The Raptors have shown significant interest, with Masai Ujiri, the team's president, being a notable advocate for Bronny. "Masai loves him. They could take him without even seeing him at 31," Paul mentions.
As the draft approaches, all eyes remain on Bronny James and the strategic maneuvers of his camp. The outcome of these efforts will undoubtedly shape the next chapter of both Bronny and LeBron James' illustrious careers.