History! Lebron James becomes first NBA player to play on same team with his son

Analysis

BBC Sport’s Sam Harris

As historic as the potential first-time father-son duo in the NBA is, Bronny James will aim to carve out a legacy far beyond that as he embarks on his blossoming NBA career.

Playing alongside one of the league’s greatest players and its all-time leading scorer is a challenge in itself. When that player is your father, the spotlight and expectations intensify even further.

Bronny’s college career was unfortunately marred by health complications, limiting his stat line massively.

Nevertheless, Bronny brings a strong defensive presence, particularly on the perimeter, excelling in point-of-attack defence with remarkable agility and tenacity.

Those skills were all evident at the 2024 draft combine where he climbed the rankings in Chicago, bolstered by standout performances in the three-point shooting contest and agility drills.

Bronny most likely won’t be a major offensive component in his first year as a Laker; he might even play some G-League minutes too.

He will have to work on his ability to score inside the paint, unlocking a wider shot selection as well as finesse his shooting from behind the arc.

A guard his size needs to be able to hit threes a lot better than what he managed at USC (26.7%). Especially if he’s getting limited rotation minutes.

Being the 55th pick in the second round of a draft class that didn’t have much in the way of standout talent will take some pressure off his shoulders.

But having watched LeBron James over the years, you know that nothing but being on the top of the mountain will suffice and you’d imagine Bronny’s mindset will be no different at all.

It’s another Hollywood narrative for the LA Lakers who appointed former NBA star JJ Redick as head coach just last week.

Let’s see if it will pay off as they search for that 18th championship.