Paul: LeBron James Open to Future Without Playing Alongside Son Bronny

Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James has come to terms with the possibility that he may not share the NBA court with his son, USC guard Bronny James.

"LeBron is off this idea of having to play with Bronny. … There's no deal made that it's guaranteed that if the Lakers draft Bronny at 55, (LeBron) will re-sign," James' agent, Rich Paul, disclosed to ESPN's Jonathan Givony. "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."

Bronny has exclusively participated in workouts with the Lakers and the Phoenix Suns ahead of the draft. Givony reported that six other teams were unable to bring in the former Trojan for pre-draft evaluations.

Paul countered suggestions of preferential treatment for LeBron, noting past instances where he restricted workouts for clients to guide them to preferred destinations.

"I don't care about him going to the Lakers, or Phoenix, or about what number he gets picked. It's about fit."

Paul indicated that James is likely concluded with pre-draft workouts, although teams like the Minnesota Timberwolves, Dallas Mavericks, and Toronto Raptors have shown interest.

Meanwhile, LeBron has the option to decline his $51.4-million player option for the 2024-25 season and explore free agency. Paul clarified that James is not inclined to sign with the Suns for a minimum contract.

The NBA icon previously expressed a desire to play alongside his son but has softened his stance, stating that Bronny "will decide what he wants to do and how he wants his career to go."

The Lakers hold the 17th and 55th picks in the upcoming NBA draft, while the Phoenix Suns will make their selection at No. 22.