Multi-Year Guaranteed Contract for 55th Overall Pick Bronny James with Los Angeles Lakers: A Breakdown of the Agreement and Its Significance

The 55th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, Bronny James, is set to sign a multi-year guaranteed contract with the Los Angeles Lakers. This news comes from Shams Charania of The Athletic, who broke the story about James’ contract.

Bronny’s agent, Rich Paul, made it clear that his client would not be signing a two-way deal. In an interview with Chris Haynes of Bleacher Report, Paul stated that he had big plans for his young protégé.

It is rare for second-round picks to secure guaranteed contracts in the NBA. Typically, players in this position have to prove themselves in NBA Summer League and training camps to earn a two-way contract. However, James’ agent has significant influence in NBA circles and was able to secure his client a guaranteed deal.

This move isn’t unprecedented, as other second-round picks have received guaranteed contracts in the past. For example, Jalen Pickett and Chris Livingston signed multi-million dollar deals last year. Paul represents both Livingston and James and was instrumental in securing their deals.

Bronny James had a standout performance in a college game against Oregon State, showcasing his potential as a player. Despite an average freshman season at USC, where he posted modest stats, James will have the chance to develop with the Lakers and potentially earn playing time early on. Moreover, playing alongside his father will make history as the first father-son duo in NBA history.