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. His approach is to find a team that values Bronny and push him there. He points to past successes with other clients, noting that Talen Horton-Tucker, Brandon Boston Jr., and Chris Livingston landed guaranteed deals with few workouts. Paul used similar strategies with MarJon Beauchamp and Darius Garland.
NBA teams are prohibited from withholding medical information from players, as per the NBA's collective bargaining agreement. This regulation ensures transparency and fairness in the draft process.
Context and Developmental Needs
NBA teams are interested in evaluating Bronny in different contexts than at USC. Rich Paul emphasizes the importance of understanding these contexts and Bronny's developmental needs. His strategies are designed to secure real deals for his clients, rather than wasting time with teams that aren't serious about Bronny's potential.
LeBron's Influence and Future Plans
LeBron James previously expressed interest in teaming up with his son. However, he hasn't thought much about playing alongside Bronny lately. Having completed his 21st season, LeBron could become a free agent.
While it might seem natural to assume that LeBron's next move would be influenced by where Bronny lands, Rich Paul reveals that LeBron is not fixated on this. Bronny's main focus is on getting to the league, rather than on the possibility of playing with his dad. Paul emphasizes that LeBron playing with Bronny is not a priority and that there are no guarantees linking LeBron's decision to re-sign with the Lakers to the drafting of Bronny.
Potential Destinations for Bronny
Bronny is likely done with workouts, barring any unexpected developments. Rumors that LeBron would re-sign with the Lakers if they draft Bronny are dispelled by Paul. He argues that if the Lakers' interest were solely for leverage, they wouldn't wait until the 55th pick to draft him. LeBron won't re-sign with the Lakers just because they draft Bronny, nor will he join Phoenix for a minimum deal.
Other teams expressing interest include the Timberwolves, Mavericks, and Raptors. The Mavericks' General Manager, Nico Harrison, has a good relationship with Bronny, potentially making Dallas a viable destination. The Raptors, led by President Masai Ujiri, could draft Bronny at their 31st pick without even requiring a workout.
Jonathan Givony notes that this strategic planning adds complexity to Bronny's draft experience, as the basketball world watches closely to see where he lands.
Conclusion
"This is nothing new," says Rich Paul. "The goal is to find a team that values your guy and try to push him to get there." He reiterates the importance of understanding the context and stresses that Bronny is treated the same as Paul's previous clients. Paul ensures that only teams willing to offer real deals are entertained. "If you won't give him a real deal, there's nothing to talk about," he adds.
Ultimately, LeBron's decision about his future is independent of Bronny's draft outcome. Paul's stance is clear: "LeBron is off this idea of having to play with Bronny. If he does, he does. But if he doesn't, he doesn't." The landscape of the NBA draft is intricate, and Bronny's journey remains a focal point as teams strategize their picks. "There's no deal made that guarantees LeBron will re-sign if the Lakers draft Bronny at 55," Paul emphasizes, debunking rumors and speculation.
As the draft approaches, it remains to be seen where Bronny James will land. Basketball enthusiasts and analysts alike continue to monitor the developments, knowing that the decisions made will shape the futures of both Bronny and potentially his legendary father, LeBron James.