Sources from NBA teams have expressed difficulty in securing workouts with Bronny James. However, Bronny has nonetheless worked out individually for the Phoenix Suns and the Los Angeles Lakers. This selective approach is by design, according to his agent, Rich Paul.
Agent's Strategy and Defense
Rich Paul staunchly defends his approach, asserting that Bronny is receiving the same treatment as other players he represents. Paul's strategy revolves around finding a team that values Bronny's potential and ensuring that he lands there. Other players such as Talen Horton-Tucker, Brandon Boston Jr., and Chris Livingston have also landed guaranteed deals with only a few workouts. This meticulous method was similarly applied with MarJon Beauchamp and Darius Garland.
However, it’s important to note that withholding medical information from teams, a tactic sometimes used in the past, is now prohibited by the NBA's collective bargaining agreement.
Context and Developmental Needs
NBA teams are eager to see Bronny James in various contexts beyond his time at USC. Paul emphasizes the importance of understanding these different contexts and development needs for young players like Bronny. According to Paul, his strategic planning involves ensuring that Bronny secures authentic opportunities rather than superficial ones.
LeBron's Influence and Future Plans
There has been significant speculation about LeBron James’ interest in playing alongside his son. Previously, LeBron had expressed interest in teaming up with Bronny, but his mindset appears to have evolved. LeBron, who recently completed his 21st season and is poised to potentially become a free agent, has refocused his priorities. Paul reveals that LeBron is not fixated on playing with Bronny; instead, Bronny's primary focus is on getting into the league on his own merits.
Rumors linking LeBron re-signing with the Lakers to Bronny being drafted have been dispelled. Paul affirms that LeBron won't re-sign with the Lakers purely because they draft Bronny. Additionally, the notion that LeBron might move to Phoenix for a minimum deal is also ruled out.
Potential Destinations for Bronny
With Bronny likely done with workouts, unless something unexpected arises, speculation about his potential destinations continues to swirl. Among the interested teams are the Timberwolves, Mavericks, and Raptors.
The Mavericks, in particular, have a favorable relationship with Bronny through their general manager, Nico Harrison. Meanwhile, the Raptors, under the leadership of president Masai Ujiri, are reportedly very interested in Bronny and could potentially draft him without the need for a workout, especially if they hold the 31st pick.
Jonathan Givony, an ESPN NBA Draft analyst, notes that Paul's strategic planning adds layers of complexity to Bronny's draft experience. The basketball world is watching closely to see where Bronny will ultimately land.
In Paul's words, "This is nothing new. The goal is to find a team that values your guy and try to push him to get there." He emphasizes the importance of understanding the context and asserts that Bronny’s situation is akin to that of his 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."
Addressing the topic of LeBron's involvement, Paul insists, "LeBron is off this idea of having to play with Bronny. If he does, he does. But if he doesn't, he doesn't." He further clarifies misconceptions about leveraging LeBron's potential re-signing to benefit Bronny's draft, stating, "There's no deal made that it's guaranteed that if the Lakers draft Bronny at 55, he [LeBron] will re-sign." Paul decisively notes, "If that was the case, I would force them to take him at 17. We don't need leverage."
On the subject of Phoenix, Paul is equally forthright, "LeBron is not going to Phoenix for a minimum deal. We can squash that now." He also praises Ujiri's interest in Bronny, "Masai loves him. They could take him without even seeing him at 31."
As the anticipation builds, all eyes remain on Bronny James' next move. Whether or not his father's legacy casts a shadow over his burgeoning career, one thing remains clear: Bronny's path to the NBA is one meticulously curated for maximum success.