If Bronny James wants to carve out a long-term future with the Los Angeles Lakers after his dad, LeBron James, moves on from the city or retires, moments like Luka Doncic’s contract celebration are where it starts.
Yet, when the team gathered in Vegas to celebrate locking in their new franchise player, Bronny was not there. That is a tough look.
Bronny James has to show up for Lakers
That news did not sit well with veteran broadcaster Dan Patrick, who addressed it head-on during The Dan Patrick Show.
Patrick said, “The one person who I thought should have been there was his [LeBron James’s] son, Bronny James. if he wants to stay longer after LeBron leaves…that’s what was surprising. ... Bronny James should’ve been there. You’re the last guy on the roster; you should be there. Show support.”
Doncic’s press conference was not just about numbers on a contract. It was about chemistry and turning things over to the new face of the franchise.
That is what made Bronny’s absence more than just some sort of a scheduling conflict. It looked like a missed opportunity to connect with a team he is still trying to truly join.
To be fair, LeBron was not in Vegas either, but according to The Stein Line’s Marc Stein, he still made the effort to reach out. He FaceTimed Doncic to personally congratulate him. A simple gesture that showed leadership and respect, even from afar.
Patrick understood that Bronny is on vacation, but some things are just more important.
Patrick said, “It just felt like, 'hey, my dad's LeBron, we got a vacation.' That's where you say, 'Dad, I am going to cut short this vacation. I need to be there. I think it’s really important… That's my team, that's my teammate.'”
Bronny’s rookie season was a quiet one, just 2.3 points per game across 27 appearances. He has made real strides during Summer League. There is potential, no doubt, but potential alone does not earn trust in the NBA.
Being a pro means more than just playing your minutes. It is about showing up when it counts, even when it is not about you.
Doncic’s celebration was a chance for Bronny to show he is locked in with this team and this city, for now and for whatever comes after his dad’s last game. He did not take that chance. Next time, he needs to.
There will for sure be more moments like the oneDoncic went through. We know how Bronny feels about the spotlight, but the next time one of those comes around, hopefully the Lakers guard is right there, present, and locked into the bigger picture.