LeBron, Bronny sign deals, brings Lakers’ father-son tandem closer
LeBron and Bronny James signed new deals a few moments apart to bring the Los Angeles Lakers’ father-son tandem closer to reality.
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LEBRON, BRONNY SIGN DEALS
LeBron and Bronny signed deals a few moments apart on Wednesday to bring the Los Angeles Lakers’ first active father-son tandem closer to reality.
First, LeBron agreed to return to LA after signing a two-year, USD104-million contract, sources told ESPN.
Part of the contract included a player option for 2025-26 and a no-trade clause.
Furthermore, this makes LeBron the only active player other than Phoenix Suns’ guard Bradley Beal who has a no-trade clause in his contract.
Moreover, LeBron’s new contract would put the Lakers above USD1 million over the NBA’s new salary apron.
However, LeBron’s agent, Rich Paul of Klutch Sports, is planning to meet Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka of taking USD1 million or so below the minimum.
This would help the Lakers go under the USD1889 million second apron and give LA more roster flexibility, sources said.
On the other hand, Bronny secured a four-year, USD7.9 million contract.
NEW, LONGER BRONNY DEAL ENSURES ACTIVE FATHER-SON DUO IN NBA HISTORY
A new and longer Bronny deal ensures the active father-son duo in NBA history is closer than ever to reality.
Bronny was picked No.55 by the Lakers in the second round of the draft.
He will earn USD1.157 in his first year.
Furthermore, Pelinka and new Lakers coach JJ Redick said Bronny will be the focus of LA’s revamped player development program.
“We view Bronny as (a) Caste Study One because (of) his case level of feel, athleticism, point-of-attack defender, shooting, passing,” Redick said.
“There’s a lot to like about his game. He’s going to have a great opportunity to become an excellent NBA player,” he added.
INJURIES, G LEAGUE TRANSFER MINOR OBSTACLES TO PREVENT LEBRON-BRONNY PAIRING
With father and son locked up with new deals, only injuries and a temporary transfer to the G League would be the minor obstacles to preventing a LeBron-Bronny pairing on the court.
Furthermore, Redick would try to balance a strategy to pace LeBron in an 82-game regular season and keep him fresh for the playoffs.
Moreover, injuries may prevent LeBron from playing more games than usual.
However, LeBron’s durability has been proven as he will be playing in his 20th season.
On the other hand, Bronny’s development may take him to the Lakers’ G League affiliate in some stretches of the season.
It would be a long shot for Bronny to crack Redick’s rotation.
Otherwise, D’Angelo Russell and Austin Reaves will likely gobble up most of the Lakers’ backcourt time.
This means his playing time may only happen during blowouts.
Either way, fans can still expect LeBron and Bronny to play together sooner rather than later.
