In the past, LeBron James has been open about his ambition to play in the NBA with Bronny James. Executives from the league are currently thinking about selecting Bronny with their first-round pick in the next NBA Draft in order to perhaps attract the future Hall of Famer when he becomes a free agent.

Conversations within the league have indicated that Bronny’s draft value could be strongly linked to LeBron James’s upcoming free agency, according to a Los Angeles Times story. This was the case even though the father and son pair attempted to alter the story in public remarks.

An unidentified executive reportedly stated, “If you’re a contender and you’re not having those conversations, it’s irresponsible.” The article also stated that, despite the lack of certainty around the plan’s success, the possible move is being debated throughout the league.

In the 2024–25 season, LeBron James has a player option. It is unclear what he will do after that.

Multiple issues cast doubt on Bronny James’ draft stock following the combine.

In the past, Bronny James was not considered a major talent and was thought of as a late second round pick in the NBA draft. This was due to a lackluster single season at USC and a health problem before his first year. James was viewed as a “more serious draft prospect afterward” despite his inconsistent combine performance, the Times story continued.

In his one and only season with USC, James played 25 games, six of which he started, and averaged just 4.8 points on 36.6% shooting with 2.8 rebounds in 19.6 minutes on the floor.

James’s height in the combine was only 6 feet 1 1/2 inches. Being the same height as Tyrese Maxey or Jalen Brunson but lacking the offensive firepower the latter two demonstrated in college put him at a disadvantage. James, however, demonstrated his athleticism with a vertical leap that was tied for sixth highest in the combine at 40.5 inches.

According to a scout quoted in the Times article, “If he was 6 foot 5, we’d be talking about him in the first round.”

Scouts also took note of James’ tenacity and defensive acumen, as well as his physicality and athleticism, which might be crucial in point-of-attack defense.

During the combine’s opening scrimmage, Bronny James didn’t seem to put in any work. Before the combine, a scout who was acquainted with Bronny’s play characterized his style as “too timid,” and it was evident.

However, during the last five-on-five scrimmage, James proved his mettle on defense and his ability to make quick decisions in that area of the court.

Bronny is adamant that his dream is to play in the NBA and not be LeBron James’ teammate.

Instead of focusing too much on joining his father’s team before the draft, Bronny James is focused on realizing his NBA ambition.

“More than thinking about playing with my dad, I would be happy just to get to the league.” That’s not at all how I’m thinking right now. During the combine, Bronny stated, “I’m just trying to put in the work and see where it takes me from there.”

“I always make an effort to show there and play. I play hard and try to play the proper way. Additionally, I always play with intensity, and I believe it shows on the defensive end. Yes, I simply try to concentrate on it because in the long term, that’s what will provide me minutes.

LeBron James’ agent Rich Paul claims that Klutch Sports intends to guide Bronny to a team that would let the younger James manage his own career.