The drama is already brewing for Bronny James, and LSU’s Flau’jae Johnson didn’t hold back. Expectations are sky-high with LeBron James’ son freshly picked by the Los Angeles Lakers in the second round of the 2024 NBA Draft. But Johnson made it clear: don’t count on Bronny to walk away with the 2024/25 Rookie of the Year award, adding fuel to the whispers of an NBA Nepotism Case surrounding his selection.

Is Bronny Just Another NBA Nepotism Case?

Johnson, a rising star in college basketball, cast doubt on Bronny’s chances. She outright dismissed the hype, citing his relatively low draft pick and absence from major preseason highlights. Bronny, chosen 55th overall, has yet to make his mark, and Johnson believes other rookies—like Rob Dillingham and Reed Sheppard—are way ahead in the race. “I don’t see it happening,” Johnson said bluntly, questioning if Bronny will even play enough to deserve the attention.

It’s a bold statement considering the weight of Bronny’s family name. If Bronny manages to share the court with his father, LeBron James, it will be a historic first for the NBA. However, Johnson’s remarks raise the million-dollar question: Can Bronny escape his father’s shadow and prove himself?

Is Bronny Just Riding His Dad’s Coattails?

Let’s face it—Bronny isn’t exactly a Victor Wembanyama-level prodigy. While his defensive game has earned him some praise, he’s no surefire star. Being a four-star recruit might seem impressive, but the fact that he was drafted 55th shows that not everyone is sold on his potential. Critics like Johnson wonder if Bronny’s fame is more about his last name than his skills.

Rookie of the Year? Don’t Bet On It

Even the NBA’s top brass seem to agree with Johnson. In a poll of the league’s general managers, Bronny didn’t receive a single vote for Rookie of the Year. Ouch. Instead, Houston Rockets’ Reed Sheppard leads the pack with 50% of the vote, followed by Memphis Grizzlies’ Zach Edey and San Antonio Spurs’ Stephon Castle. The competition is fierce, and Bronny isn’t even in the conversation.

A Historic First—But Is It Enough?

If Bronny steps onto the court with LeBron, they’ll make history as the first father-son duo to play together in the NBA. But is that alone enough to justify the hype? His performance will have to speak louder than his lineage.

Bronny’s journey to carve out his own legacy is just beginning. Whether he can rise to the occasion or crumble under the pressure remains to be seen. But one thing’s for sure—Flau’jae Johnson isn’t buying into the Bronny hype.