Sources from NBA teams have expressed difficulty in securing workouts with Bronny James. However, Bronny James has worked out individually for the Phoenix Suns and the Los Angeles Lakers. This selective workout plan is by design, according to his agent, Rich Paul.
Agent's Strategy and Defense
Rich Paul defends that Bronny has not received treatment different from other players Paul represents. He emphasizes the importance of finding a team that truly values Bronny and is committed to pushing him to succeed there. To provide some context, players like Talen Horton-Tucker, Brandon Boston Jr., and Chris Livingston landed guaranteed deals with very few workouts under Paul’s strategic guidance. Similarly, MarJon Beachamp and Darius Garland benefitted from this approach.
It is noteworthy that withholding medical information from teams is now prohibited by the NBA's collective bargaining agreement, meaning all pertinent details about a player's physical condition must be shared to maintain transparency and fairness in the draft process.
Context and Developmental Needs
NBA teams are interested in seeing Bronny performing in different contexts beyond his tenure at USC. Rich Paul emphasizes the necessity of understanding the broader context and developmental needs specific to Bronny. According to Paul, these strategies are intentionally designed to secure real, substantive deals for his client, ensuring a suitable environment for Bronny to thrive.
LeBron's Influence and Future Plans
LeBron James has previously expressed interest in teaming up with his son, but recent updates indicate a shift in his stance. LeBron, having completed his 21st season and potentially becoming a free agent, hasn't dwelled much on the prospect of playing alongside Bronny lately. Both LeBron and Rich Paul underscore that Bronny’s primary goal is making it to the league, rather than necessarily playing with his father.
Rich Paul reveals that LeBron is not fixated on the idea of playing with Bronny. The elder James remains pragmatic, indicating that if it happens, that's great, but if it doesn't, it's perfectly acceptable as well.
Potential Destinations for Bronny
It appears that Bronny may have concluded his workout phase unless an unexpected opportunity arises. Previous rumors suggesting that LeBron's potential re-signing with the Lakers was tied to Bronny being drafted have been dispelled. According to Paul, LeBron would not re-sign with the Lakers merely because they draft Bronny, and he certainly won't head to Phoenix for a minimal deal.
Other interested teams in the mix include the Minnesota Timberwolves, Dallas Mavericks, and Toronto Raptors. Notably, Nico Harrison of the Mavericks shares a good relationship with Bronny, which could influence their interest. Similarly, Masai Ujiri, president of the Raptors, reportedly admires Bronny's potential and could consider drafting him at pick 31 without a formal workout.
Jonathan Givony, a respected NBA analyst, notes that the strategic planning surrounding Bronny's draft scenario adds complexity to the experience. The basketball community closely watches to see where Bronny will land, underscoring the intrigue and anticipation shared by fans, analysts, and teams alike.
In reflecting on the situation, Rich Paul reiterates a key strategy: "The goal is to find a team that values your guy and tries to get him there." It’s crucial to him that teams genuinely recognize Bronny's talent and potential. "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 asserts.
Addressing the conversations surrounding LeBron's potential influence on Bronny's draft, Paul adds, "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 emphasizes that no deal guarantees that if the Lakers draft Bronny at pick 55, LeBron will re-sign. "If that was the case, I would force them to take him at 17. We don't need leverage." In essence, the Lakers could draft Bronny, and LeBron may still choose to go in a different direction. Additionally, LeBron will not head to Phoenix for a minimum deal, squashing any related rumors.
The draft's unfolding remains a significant point of interest, with numerous scenarios and possibilities at play. Masai Ujiri's admiration for Bronny indicates that the Raptors, known for their savvy drafting strategies, could make a move even without a conventional workout process. In essence, Bronny's journey to the NBA is a blend of carefully calculated strategies influenced by his innate talent and the guidance of a seasoned agent like Rich Paul.