Sources from NBA teams have expressed difficulty in securing workouts with Bronny James. This scarcity of workouts is not coincidental; it is a deliberate strategy orchestrated by his agent, Rich Paul. Bronny has worked out individually for only two teams so far—the Phoenix Suns and the Los Angeles Lakers.
Agent's Strategy and Defense
Rich Paul defends that Bronny has not received different treatment compared to other players he represents. His strategy is designed to find a team that genuinely values Bronny and to place him there. This selective approach is not unprecedented. Paul has previously secured guaranteed deals with few workouts for clients like Talen Horton-Tucker, Brandon Boston Jr., and Chris Livingston.
Paul has also employed similar tactics with players like MarJon Beauchamp and Darius Garland. Now, under the NBA's collective bargaining agreement, withholding medical information from teams is prohibited, but careful management of workout invitations continues to be a critical part of Paul’s strategy.
Context and Developmental Needs
NBA teams are keen on seeing Bronny in different contexts beyond his time at USC. Rich Paul emphasizes the importance of understanding the context and developmental needs that best suit Bronny. According to Paul, these strategic decisions are made to ensure real deals for Bronny, rather than superficial interest.
LeBron’s Influence and Future Plans
LeBron James had previously expressed a desire to team up with his son in the NBA, but this seems to have taken a back seat recently. After completing his 21st season, LeBron could become a free agent, but his current focus is not centered on playing alongside Bronny.
Bronny, for his part, is more focused on making it to the league rather than specifically playing with his father. Rich Paul reveals that LeBron is not preoccupied with the idea of playing with Bronny. “If he does, he does. But if he doesn’t, he doesn’t,” Paul states.
Potential Destinations for Bronny
It appears that Bronny is likely done with workouts unless something unexpected materializes. Rumors suggesting that LeBron would re-sign with the Lakers contingent on them drafting Bronny have been dispelled. Furthermore, there's no indication that LeBron would join the Phoenix Suns for a minimum deal.
Other NBA teams interested in Bronny include the Minnesota Timberwolves, the Dallas Mavericks, and the Toronto Raptors. Nico Harrison of the Mavericks reportedly has a good relationship with Bronny, while Raptors' president Masai Ujiri is also said to be very interested. According to Jonathan Givony, this strategic planning adds complexity to Bronny's draft experience, making his eventual landing spot a focal point for the basketball community.
“This is nothing new,” Rich Paul explains. “The goal is to find a team that values your guy and try to push him to get there.” He adds, “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 reiterates that the strategy is straightforward. "LeBron is off this idea of having to play with Bronny. If he does, he does. But if he doesn’t, he doesn’t." Debunking rumors further, Paul clarifies, “There’s no deal made that it’s guaranteed LeBron will re-sign with the Lakers if they draft Bronny at 55. If that was the case, I would force them to take him at 17. We don't need leverage.”
“The Lakers can draft Bronny, and LeBron doesn’t re-sign. LeBron is also not going to Phoenix for a minimum deal. We can squash that now,” Paul asserts. Highlighting another potential team, he notes, “Masai [Ujiri, Raptors president] loves him. They could take him without even seeing him at 31.”
The basketball world is watching closely to see where Bronny James lands, with Rich Paul’s strategic moves adding layers of intrigue to the narrative. The focus remains on finding a team that genuinely values Bronny's potential, ensuring his path to the NBA is paved with substantial opportunities rather than mere gestures of interest.