LeBron James' Agent Claims He Could Ditch Lakers Even If Team Drafts Son Bronny
LeBron James has been on the record saying that he would "do whatever it takes" to play alongside his oldest son, Bronny James, but according to his agent Rich Paul, he's now off on that idea.
The Los Angeles Lakers hold both the 17th and 55th picks in the upcoming NBA Draft and there is an expectation, or at least a desire from fans, to see the franchise call Bronny's name. With LeBron potentially opting out of his contract with the Lakers to enter free agency at the end of the month, it's not far-fetched to think the Lakers drafting or signing his son would keep him in town.
According to Paul, however, that isn't the case. LeBron could ditch the Lakers even if they draft his son.
"LeBron is off this idea of having to play with Bronny," Paul told ESPN. "If he does, he does. But if he doesn’t, he doesn’t. There’s no deal made that it’s guaranteed that if the Lakers draft Bronny at 55, he [LeBron] will re-sign. 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 James and his son Bronny James. Photos c/o Getty Images.
Paul literally saying "we don't need leverage" is a noteworthy comment as it certainly feels as if LeBron is sending a message to the front office in LA. It's no secret that James needs help - and much more than his son will offer - to put together another championship run with the Lakers if he is to stay with the franchise.
As per usual when any superstar has the potential to opt out of their deal and be courted in free agency - as James has done a number of times - there are rumors galore as to what he may decide to do. It's hard to imagine LeBron leaving Los Angeles if the Lakers draft Bronny, but I suppose crazier things have happened.