Report: NBA execs may use 1st-rounder on Bronny to lure LeBron in free agency

Multiple NBA executives have discussed drafting Bronny James in the first round hoping that his father, LeBron, will follow suit and join their club in free agency, according to Dan Woike of The Los Angeles Times.

LeBron has until June 29 - two days after the conclusion of this year's NBA draft - to exercise his $51.4-million player option for next season.

"If you're a contender and you're not having those conversations, it's irresponsible," an executive told Woike.

However, it's not a given LeBron would join the team that selects Bronny, The Athletic's Shams Charania recently reported on FanDuel's "Up & Adams."

The Los Angeles Lakers have interviewed Bronny as part of their draft preparations and are seen as the floor for the USC product at No. 55, sources told Woike.

While Bronny hopes to fulfill his NBA dream, the McDonald's All-American has openly spoken about forging his own path in the Association.

Bronny's freshman year with the Trojans was delayed after he suffered a cardiac arrest during an offseason practice. The 19-year-old guard debuted in December and averaged 4.8 points, 2.8 boards, and 2.1 assists across 25 appearances this season.

Bronny improved his draft stock with a respectable showing at the NBA combine, posting a team-high 13 points in 23 minutes of action during a recent scrimmage.