Lakers Secure Multi-Year Deal with Bronny James

The Los Angeles Lakers have finalized a multi-year guaranteed contract with Bronny James, the No. 55 pick in this year's NBA draft, sources confirmed to The Athletic's Shams Charania.

James, who was selected late in the second round last week, is set to join his father, LeBron James, pending the elder James' anticipated re-signing with the Lakers after opting out of his previous deal before free agency.

"Bronny has earned this opportunity through hard work," Lakers head coach JJ Redick stated during a press conference introducing James and first-rounder Dalton Knecht, as reported by ESPN's Dave McMenamin.

Unlike first-round picks, who receive four-year contracts based on draft position, second-round picks like James can negotiate any contract terms.

In the 2023 NBA Draft, 15 players secured guaranteed deals, three were placed overseas or in the G League, and 10 signed non-guaranteed two-way contracts. Notably, only three players drafted after pick No. 44 secured guaranteed contracts.

James predominantly played in a reserve capacity during his sole season at USC, where he dealt with offseason health concerns. He averaged 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game in 19.3 minutes on the court.