Sources from NBA teams have expressed difficulty in securing workouts with Bronny James, and it appears this is by design according to his agent, Rich Paul. Despite the challenges faced by teams to get Bronny for workouts, he has individually worked out for both the Phoenix Suns and the Los Angeles Lakers.
Agent's Strategy and Defense
Rich Paul, Bronny's agent, defends that the practices in handling Bronny's pre-draft process are not different than what he has done with his other clients. Paul is intentional in his approach, aiming to find a team that truly values Bronny and is committed to pushing him towards a successful career in the league.
Paul points to previous success stories such as Talen Horton-Tucker, Brandon Boston Jr., and Chris Livingston, all of whom secured guaranteed deals with minimal individual workouts. Similar strategies were also utilized with MarJon Beauchamp and Darius Garland.
However, it’s important to note that withholding medical information from teams is now prohibited by the NBA's collective bargaining agreement, ensuring a more transparent process for all parties involved.
Context and Developmental Needs
NBA teams are particularly interested in observing Bronny in varied contexts beyond his performances at USC. Rich Paul underscores the importance of understanding Bronny’s context and developmental needs to make well-informed decisions on his future.
Paul’s strategic approach is designed to authenticate Bronny’s deals and align them with his best interests. Their goal remains clear: to find a team that values Bronny’s talents and potential.
LeBron's Influence and Future Plans
LeBron James, Bronny's father, previously expressed a desire to play alongside his son in the NBA. However, discussions with Rich Paul reveal that this is no longer a priority for LeBron. Having completed his 21st season, LeBron could become a free agent soon, yet his focus appears not to be fixated on syncing his career with his son’s entry into the league.
According to Paul, Bronny is more focused on making it to the league on his own merit rather than specifically targeting an opportunity to play with his dad.
Potential Destinations for Bronny
As Bronny’s workout sessions wind down, speculation about his draft destination intensifies. Rich Paul has clarified that rumors linking LeBron’s potential re-signing with the Lakers to their selection of Bronny are unfounded. LeBron will not re-sign with the Lakers merely because they draft Bronny, nor is he considering a minimum deal with the Phoenix Suns.
The Timberwolves, Mavericks, and Raptors have also shown interest in Bronny. Nico Harrison of the Mavericks reportedly has a positive relationship with Bronny, which could influence their draft plans. Meanwhile, Raptors President Masai Ujiri is known to be a big supporter, suggesting they might pick Bronny without even a workout if they secure the 31st pick.
Jonathan Givony of Draft Express notes that Paul’s meticulous planning adds complexity to Bronny’s draft experience, making it a closely watched process within the basketball world.
Rich Paul firmly believes in the importance of understanding the context for his clients. “Bronny is the same as my previous clients,” says Paul. He stresses that teams must be ready to offer genuine deals for Bronny or there’s no point in further discussions.
Reflecting on LeBron’s position, Paul emphasizes, “LeBron is off this idea of having to play with Bronny. If he does, he does. But if he doesn’t, he doesn’t.” There’s no predetermined agreement ensuring LeBron re-signs with the Lakers if they draft Bronny. ”If that was the case, I would force them to take him at 17. We don’t need leverage,” he asserts. Paul reiterates that the Lakers drafting Bronny does not guarantee a re-signing by LeBron, and LeBron is not seeking a minimum deal with the Suns.
Highlighting the Raptors’ interest, Paul mentions, “Masai loves him. They could take him without even seeing him at 31.” As the draft approaches, the basketball community remains on high alert, eager to see where Bronny James will land and how this strategic pre-draft maneuvering will unfold.