Speculation continues that the father-son duo will play together on the same NBA team
Bronny James‘ potential future in the NBA may rest on the decision of one influential NBA veteran, according to Magic Johnson.
LeBron James has long expressed his desire to play alongside his son before retiring, a wish that seems within reach. Their agent, Rich Paul, recently confirmed that Bronny will enter the NBA draft. However, one more requirement remains before the father-son dream is realized.
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During the premiere of the action-comedy film “Bad Boys: Ride or Die,” Magic Johnson hinted that LeBron James‘ determination could be the key to this father-son duo playing together in the NBA.
“I don’t know it. It could happen, you know. If LeBron wants it, it will happen,” Johnson explained.
It’s worth noting that Johnson worked closely as President of Basketball Operations of the Los Angeles Lakers, but resigned one year after LeBron signed with the team.
He will know better than most just how influential James can be with regards to roster building and player recruitment.
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This possibility opens the door for critics of the Lakers star. Many have previously highlighted Bronny’s less-than-stellar college performance, and the criticism has intensified with the 19-year-old entering the NBA Draft.
Additionally, Bronny declined invitations to work out with ten different teams, an unusual move that has fueled speculation.
Bronny has narrowed his choices to just two teams: the Los Angeles Lakers and the Phoenix Suns. This has led many to believe that Bronny is already set on joining the Lakers. The Lakers, eager to strengthen their position, have shown interest in the USC Trojans star, potentially as a strategy to retain LeBron, who has a player option for the next season.
LeBron may opt out to sign a longer contract with the Lakers or another team, although many suspect he would be more inclined to re-sign in LA should his son be part of the team.
However, NFL legend Shannon Sharpe has a different perspective. On his show “The Nightcap,” Sharpe criticized the Lakers’ ability to develop true stars under Jeanie Buss‘ ownership.
“Who have the Lakers developed? They didn’t develop Brandon Ingram, they didn’t develop Lonzo Ball… Julius Randle,” Sharpe stated.
He suggested that LeBron and Rich Paul might advise Bronny to consider other franchises in order to further his development as a player, with many experts believing the youngster to need serious work on his fundamental skills.