Bronny James’ NBA debut is perhaps the most anticipated of all rookies in the 2024 class.
Between the overall weaker draft and James’ popularity, fans are excited to see the 19-year-old take the floor with his father, LeBron James. His rookie season is likely to be short-lived in the NBA, however.
As with many second-round draft picks, they’re most likely to spend time in the G League to start their careers. James is in a unique situation considering his spotlight. Additionally, he signed a four-year, $7.9 million guaranteed contract. It’s rare for a second-rounder to sign such a deal, especially since the Lakers drafted him at No. 55. Nonetheless, James will at least debut for Los Angeles to start the season.
Will he play in the G League, too? Here’s what to expect from James’ rookie season with the Lakers.
MORE: Why Bronny James is wearing No. 9
James is expected to play the majority of his rookie year for the South Bay Lakers in the G League, ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski said on SportsCenter.
The rookie will start his season in the NBA and likely make his debut alongside his father in the first week of play. Once he gets his moment, James will spend the majority of his time developing in the G League.
Playing a majority of one’s rookie season in the G League is fairly common for second-round draft picks. Oftentimes, a late second-rounder may not even see the NBA floor in his first professional year.
James is a unique case, but he’ll still follow the traditional path to earning his NBA spot once he makes his NBA debut. There isn’t a consensus on when scouts believe James will become a full-time NBA player.
His career is difficult to project. The 19-year-old had a promising high school career before suffering cardiac arrest ahead of his freshman season at USC. That delayed his NCAA debut and ultimately limited his ability in the 25 games he played in.
The G League will give James a chance to take that leap and build off the strong NBA Draft Combine showing. While mostly considered a project, he could surprise the world and be NBA-ready as soon as this season.
His career outlook is all dependent on how he performs in the G League.
MORE: When will Bronny James make his Lakers debut?
James signed a four-year, $7.9 million contract with the Lakers. He will make $1.2 million in his rookie season, according to ESPN’s Bobby Marks. The fourth year is a team option and is worth nearly $2.5 million.
| Season | Salary |
| 2024-25 | $1,157,143 |
| 2025-26 | $1,955,377 |
| 2026-27 | $2,296,271 |
| 2027-28 | $2,486,995 (TO) |
