The Los Angeles Lakers introduced second-round pick Bronny James in a press conference on Tuesday, and head coach JJ Redick made it clear that the 19-year-old is not on the team just because of his legendary father, LeBron James.

"Bronny has earned this through hard work," Redick told reporters.

Redick added that Bronny James and No. 17 pick Dalton Knecht will participate in the California Classic as well as the Las Vegas Summer League.

The Lakers selected James with the 55th pick in last week's draft. He spent one season at USC, though his freshman year was delayed after he suffered a cardiac arrest during a summer workout that led to the discovery of a congenital heart defect. He was medically cleared to pursue a career in the NBA.

Shams Charania of The Athletic and Stadium reported on Tuesday that James will sign a multiyear, guaranteed deal with the Lakers. Second-round picks typically receive two-year deals, but it appears Los Angeles is comfortable with fully committing to the youngster.

"Everything has been surreal ... I'm extremely grateful," James told reporters on Tuesday, adding, "I've just been extremely excited to get to work."

By drafting the former Trojan, the Lakers fulfilled LeBron James' dream of playing alongside his son. The 39-year-old has long expressed a desire to share the floor with Bronny, and now they will get the chance during the 2024-25 season.

It's clear that the start of Bronny James' career will be one of the biggest storylines of the upcoming season, and the rookie guard is prepared to perform in the face of pressure.