LeBron James dunked on NBA Draft chatter surrounding son Bronny James, urging speculators to “let the kid be a kid.”
“The work and results will ultimately do the talking no matter what he decides to do,” James wrote Monday in a since-deleted post on X. “If y’all don’t know he doesn’t care what a mock draft says, he just WORKS! Earned Not Given!”
James’ criticism came in response to a report by the website Lakers Daily stating that Bronny was removed, a 19-year-old USC freshman, from its 2024 mock drafts and now projects him to be a 2025 selection.
Bronny was projected to be a 2024 first-round pick before a health issue delayed the start of his freshman season. He went into cardiac arrest during a USC workout in July and underwent surgery for a congenital heart defect.
Despite the setback, the 6-4 guard debuted at USC in mid-December and has been averaging 5.5 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game through 19 appearances, including six starts.
LeBron James has previously expressed confidence in his son’s NBA prospects, even suggesting that Bronny could play for the Lakers “right now.”
There’s extra attention on Bronny’s future because it’s long been seen as his father’s dream for them to play together in the NBA.
Reports have surfaced suggesting the Lakers are open to exploring the possibility of adding Bronny to their roster this offseason.
The elder James’ future has also been under scrutiny, especially amidst the Lakers’ less-than-stellar season, currently sitting ninth in the West.
Speculation intensified when LeBron posted an hourglass emoji on social media before the NBA trade deadline, seen by many as a hint for the Lakers’ front office to make significant moves.
Additionally, there were reports that the Golden State Warriors reached out to the Lakers to inquire about trading for LeBron James.
LeBron James, who has a player option for the 2024-25 season, is currently averaging 25.0 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 7.9 assists per game in his 21st NBA season.
