Not for LeBron James to Opt-In on $51,415,938 Player Option, Lakers Would Actually Recruit 18YO Son Bronny for His Skills

The Los Angeles Lakers are no stranger to taking up extravagant contracts for the services of NBA stars. The legendary franchise lived up to this very reputation when they brought LeBron James to Los Angeles with a whopping $154M contract. It will now offer The King a similar contract yet again to retain his services for the upcoming seasons. However, this deal comes in with a slight twist.

LeBron James has often stated his desire to play alongside his sons, Bronny and Bryce James. Given this condition, the Lakers were always tempted to recruit James Jr. to ensure The Chosen One opts in to his $51,415,938 player option next season. However, the narrative surrounding Bronny James’ recruitment has witnessed a significant change lately. Will the Lakers still recruit the 18-year-old just for his father?

Lakers may recruit Bronny for more than LeBron James

Ever since LeBron James expressed his desire to play alongside his sons, Bronny James’ draft potential skyrocketed. Several teams wished to draft Bronny in order to lure his father into their franchise. Naturally, the Lakers hopped onto the bandwagon as well. However, 18-year-old Bronny has provided a stronger reason to be deemed worthy of the attention – his terrific skills.

Bronny James can declare for the NBA Draft as soon as the 2024 season. He is now projected as the 20th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, but not because of his father. Over the past few years, James Jr. has made a name for himself despite his father’s stature. An NBA scout recently told HoopsHype about this very position that Bronny has put himself in.

“I think Bronny will go in the draft because of who he is, and some team will really think LeBron will come if they draft him,” the NBA scout said. “If the Lakers get a pick, they won’t pass on him… He’s better than some guys who may get picked ahead of him. He’s solid, not spectacular. He knows how to play. He can handle the ball well enough. If you leave him alone, he’ll drill a three,” he added.

He further drew comparisons to former Minnesota Timberwolves guard, Austin Rivers. “He reminds me of Austin Rivers as a player, and he has stayed in the league for over a decade,” the scout said.

READ MORE: Latest Development on Bronny James’ Cardiac Arrest Recovery Keeps LeBron James’ Dream Of Playing With His Son Alive

Bronny James may not be the most talented player out of his draft class but has definitely shown tremendous promise. Although his skills may impress several franchises, his father’s legacy may overshadow his potential. However, here’s what the franchises can expect from James Jr. if they get the privilege of drafting him.

James is a two-way star, much like his father

In his prime, LeBron James’ defense seemed as ferocious as some of the greats of the game. The four-time MVP had tenacious defensive instincts that backed his generational offensive skills. This elevated him to the GOAT status where he finds himself now. Much like his father, Bronny James has displayed similar traits on the court.

Given LeBron James’ bullish strength and freakish athleticism, there was no doubt that James would take after his father in these aspects. However, the 18-year-old has developed an impressive range from beyond to arc to add to his natural abilities. He stays intense on defense, playing physical on-ball and producing steals as an off-ball defender. He also possesses a gifted basketball IQ which has intrigued several scouts of his potential to serve as a point guard later in his career.

WATCH THIS STORY : LeBron James vs. Michael Jordan, Best Playoff Game–Winning Shots

Bronny James has definitely carved out his name as a promising young athlete. The 18-year-old has not only lived up to his father’s expectations but has also made his niche among NBA scouts. The Lakers too, would look to acquire his services, not just for James but for the future of their franchise.