It is LeBron’s dream to play in the NBA with his son Bronny, and the Lakers are reportedly willing to make that happen.
LeBron has said he would play for another team (except Orlando) if it meant he could play with his son, but the Lakers front office want to keep the family put, according to The Athletic‘s Joe Vardon.
“If he declines a $51 million player option, James could be a free agent next summer,” Vardon wrote. “The serious health issue that befell his son Bronny over the summer and potentially delayed his entrance into the NBA Draft could be the single biggest factor affecting James’ free agency. He would want to be able to play on the same team as his son, if it’s possible, but even if Bronny is in the draft (he intends to play at some point this season as a freshman for USC), most observers believe the Lakers will find a way to make sure that happens in Los Angeles.”
19-year-old Bronny suffered a cardiac arrest during basketball training in late July.
It was discovered he had a congenital heart defect, but has made encouraging progress in his recovery.
“Bronny is doing extremely well,” LeBron said in his latest update on his eldest son. “He has begun his rehab process to get back on the floor this season with his teammates at USC. He had successful surgery and he’s on the up and up.
“It was a whirlwind for our family this summer. But the best thing we have is each other and we stuck behind each other – gave Bronny strength throughout the process and we’re looking forward to seeing what his future has in stall for him.”
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Bronny walked out as a Trojan for the first time last week at USC’s annual HoopLA event, which kicks off the start of a new college basketball season and he was given a massive welcome from the crowd.
Next steps will be making his debut for the team, but his availability for the team’s first game on Nov. 9 remains uncertain.