NBA icon LeBron James continues to evaluate his options during free agency, while the rest of the league eagerly awaits his decision. James is looking at every aspect before choosing his next destination, including his family life. James recently discussed his family life publicly and essentially clarified the future of his son and current Laker, Bronny James.
LeBron James Refers To Bronny As Former Teammate As Both Men Prepare For New Chapters
James discussed his future while speaking at the Game Plan Summit in New York City, while also providing insight on Bronny. James said “I have an almost 22-year-old son, who is now my former teammate, which is hilarious.”
James’ comments suggests that Bronny is now poised to officially step out of his father’s shadow and pursue the rest of his NBA career without his father as a teammate.
James officially announced that he would be departing the Lakers organization before free agency, while the Lakers recently guaranteed Bronny’s $2,296,271 contract for the upcoming season. Those decisions caused father and son to go their separate ways.
Bronny made a modest leap in year two, improving his field-goal percentage from 31.3% as a rookie to 40.9% and his three-point percentage from 28.1% to 38.6%. However, James hasn’t shown enough to convince his critics that he’s an NBA player and wasn’t drafted just to make LeBron happy.
Lakers Head Coach JJ Redick has constantly said the Lakers believe in James, but it feels like time is running out. James will compete for a rotation spot with veterans Collin Sexton and Quentin Grimes, as well as rookie Cameron Carr, among others.
MORE: Wizards’ Anthony Davis Sends Blunt 4-Word Response When Asked If He’d Return to the Mavericks
There was a lot of speculation before the Lakers guaranteed James’ salary that he might be on the trading block and attempt to follow his father to the next destination. However, LeBron is likely excited to see what Bronny can accomplish this season in Los Angeles.
LeBron continues to be linked to multiple suitors across the NBA, with the favorite to sign him changing nearly every day. James wants to compete for a championship, which is why the Philadelphia 76ers are now being considered a potential favorite. The 76ers are projected as major championship contenders after acquiring All-NBA wing Jaylen Brown.
Whether James chooses the 76ers, the Miami Heat, or another suitor, he clarified that he is now looking to compete against his son rather than share the court with him.
