"It should be what’s best for Bronny, not what’s best for me; Jordan never did that" - Chris Broussard asserts LeBron James should tone down his much-publicized desire to play with his son
Winning championships and playing with his son Bronny James are LeBron James’ biggest motivations as he inches closer to the end of his career. Over the past few years, the four-time NBA MVP has repeatedly mentioned that playing with his son would be a huge accomplishment.
Chris Broussard, on "The Odd Couple" podcast, said that he believes the LA Lakers’ superstar’s wish could be detrimental to his son's progress:
“He shouldn’t be thinking about what’s in it for me. He got everything. It should be what’s best for Bronny, not what’s best for me. Jordan never did that, ‘Man, forget that!’ The best play is to let him develop and be ready. And maybe he will be, I’m not saying he won’t.”
The FSR sports analyst asserted that the growing pressure and scrutiny on Bronny James’ game would be unfair on the youngster.
“This is putting a ton of pressure on Bronny to get to the league in two years. Right now, he is not on a one-and-done trajectory … I would not want LeBron to pressure a team to draft Bronny before he’s ready. Because I don’t think that’s gonna help him. I think it has to be natural.”
Broussard added:
“If he has to play three years of college then that means you don’t play with LeBron. Then so be it. The owners have to be on Bronny’s timetable and making sure he really is ready for the NBA rather than [saying] 'let’s get him there as soon as possible so he can play with LeBron.'”
The NBA’s current CBA runs through the 2023-24 season, which means Bronny James will have to follow the league’s draft eligibility rules. If he takes the one-and-done route, the earliest he can turn pro will be for the 2024-25 campaign. LeBron James will be entering his 22nd year in pro basketball by the time that happens.
Even if “King James” is only a shell of himself by then, the pressure on Bronny would still be enormous.
LeBron James’ future could be with the team who can draft Bronny James
LeBron James is in no hurry to sign an extension with the LA Lakers.
He has until June 30 next year to decide if he wants to stay in Hollywood or play someplace else. The four-time champ could sign a two-year deal, with the second being a player option.
The Lakers only own a second-round pick for the 2024 NBA draft. While Bronny James seems like a second-round talent, several teams may get him early as part of a package to lure LeBron James.
This could in turn lead to the 18x All-Star giving himself multiple options by the time the 2024-25 season arrives.
If the elder James is on the roster, it is almost guaranteed that his son will also have a spot in the lineup. The aging superstar might have to come off the bench when that time arrives, which could allow him to share significant minutes with Bronny.