Sources from NBA teams have expressed difficulty in securing workouts with Bronny James. The young prospect has only worked out individually for the Phoenix Suns and the Los Angeles Lakers, a move that is reportedly by design, according to his agent Rich Paul.
Agent's Strategy and Defense
Rich Paul staunchly defends that Bronny has not received different treatment compared to other players. He aims to find a team that genuinely values Bronny and will push for his placement there. Similar strategies have been employed successfully by Paul in the past, with players like Talen Horton-Tucker, Brandon Boston Jr., and Chris Livingston landing guaranteed deals with very few workouts. Paul has also executed comparable strategies with MarJon Beachamp and Darius Garland.
However, the NBA's collective bargaining agreement now prohibits withholding medical information from teams, adding a layer of complexity to Paul's approach. Still, Paul remains confident that his strategies are by design to ensure real deals for Bronny.
Context and Developmental Needs
NBA teams are keen on observing Bronny in different contexts than at USC. Rich Paul emphasizes the importance of understanding the context and developmental needs for Bronny. According to Paul, these strategic measures are intended to secure legitimate opportunities for Bronny's professional career.
LeBron's Influence and Future Plans
LeBron James, Bronny's father, had previously expressed interest in eventually teaming up with his son in the NBA. However, recent developments suggest that LeBron hasn't given much thought lately to the prospect of playing alongside Bronny. LeBron has just completed his 21st season and could potentially become a free agent.
Bronny, on the other hand, is focused more on getting into the league in his own right rather than playing alongside his dad. Rich Paul has revealed that LeBron is not fixated on the idea of playing with Bronny. "LeBron is off this idea of having to play with Bronny. If he does, he does. But if he doesn't, he doesn't," said Paul.
Potential Destinations for Bronny
Bronny is likely done with workouts unless something unexpected emerges. Rumors linking LeBron's potential re-signing with the Lakers to them drafting Bronny have been dispelled. According to Rich Paul, LeBron will not re-sign with the Lakers solely because they draft Bronny. Moreover, LeBron has no intention of going to Phoenix for a minimum deal.
Other teams that have shown interest include the Timberwolves, Mavericks, and Raptors. Nico Harrison of the Mavericks reportedly has a good relationship with Bronny, and the Raptors could even take Bronny without a workout if they secure the 31st pick.
Jonathan Givony, an industry insider, notes that these strategic maneuvers add a layer of complexity to Bronny's draft experience. The basketball world is intently watching to see where Bronny will ultimately land.
Rich Paul emphasizes the importance of understanding the entire context. "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 reiterated.
The cautious approach extends to LeBron's career plans as well. "There's no deal made that it's guaranteed that if the Lakers draft Bronny at 55, he (LeBron) will re-sign," Paul said. "If that was the case, I would force them to take him at 17. We don't need leverage."
Paul also rebuffed any speculation linking LeBron’s move to Phoenix to a low-ball offer. "LeBron is also not going to Phoenix for a minimum deal. We can squash that now," he stated. He further mentioned that Masai Ujiri, the Raptors' president, is fond of Bronny and that they could take him at the 31st pick without even seeing him in a workout.
Final Thoughts
As the draft approaches, the spotlight remains firmly fixed on Bronny James. While his future destination in the NBA is still uncertain, one thing is clear: Rich Paul is meticulously orchestrating each step to ensure that Bronny lands on a team that truly values his talent and potential. The basketball community will be watching closely to see how this intricate and well-strategized plan unfolds.