Amidst the excitement of Bronny James' NBA Draft, his younger brother Bryce expresses doubts about his father LeBron James continuing to play in two years when Bryce becomes eligible for the Draft.
The Los Angeles Lakers have made history by selecting Bronny James, the son of the legendary LeBron James, in the second round of the 2024 NBA Draft. While the James family celebrates the realization of Bronny's NBA dream, his younger brother Bryce has cast a shadow of doubt over the possibility of them playing alongside each other in the future.
During a recent Instagram Live session, Bryce responded to a question about whether he believed his father would still be playing in the NBA when he becomes eligible for the Draft in 2026. Bryce candidly expressed his skepticism, citing LeBron's age and the physical demands of the game. "Nah, that's too much. No, Good Lord. He's going to be 42," he said.
Bronny James Drafted by Lakers: Bryce James Skeptical of Father's Longevity
Bryce has had a turbulent high school basketball career, transferring schools multiple times in search of the best environment to develop his skills. Despite these challenges, he has shown flashes of his NBA potential, standing at 6-foot-4 and showcasing impressive athleticism.
LeBron James' future with the Lakers is also uncertain. He is entering the final year of his contract and has the option to become an unrestricted free agent this summer. While there is speculation that he may leave Los Angeles, sources within the organization believe he will re-sign with the Lakers.
Bronny James Drafted by Lakers: Bryce James Skeptical of Father's Longevity
ESPN's Brian Windhorst reported in May that if James opts out of his contract, it could be a strategic move to negotiate a new deal with a no-trade clause. This would give him greater control over his future and prevent the Lakers from potentially trading him to another team against his will.
If LeBron James does extend his contract with the Lakers, he would be projected to receive a three-year, $162 million deal. However, opting out would allow him to negotiate a contract restructuring that could potentially include a no-trade clause, a valuable asset that only 10 players in NBA history have secured.
Bronny James Drafted by Lakers: Bryce James Skeptical of Father's Longevity
The possibility of LeBron James retiring before Bryce becomes eligible for the Draft remains a question mark. His exceptional longevity and commitment to fitness have defied expectations, but Father Time remains undefeated.
Bryce's skepticism reflects the uncertainty surrounding his father's NBA future. While there is still hope that the James brothers may one day share the court, the younger James remains realistic about the challenges ahead. Only time will tell whether LeBron James will continue to defy the odds and be playing when Bryce is ready to join the NBA ranks.
