NBA Schedule Avoids 'Lingering Distraction' for LeBron James, Bronny James

The Los Angeles Lakers have the chance to make history on the opening night of the NBA season if LeBron James and son Bronny James take the floor together.

The league schedule, released on August 15, shows that the Lakers host the Minnesota Timberwolves on the opening night of the season on October 22. As USA Today's Jeff Zillgitt noted, that paves the way for an NBA-first as a father and son take the floor together in the same game.

The timing of the game, with the Lakers starting on the first night of the season, may not be an accident, Zillgitt wrote.

"There’s no guarantee that LeBron and Bronny play in the season opener, but since the G League season doesn’t start until November, the Lakers may try to make history early in the NBA season and get it out of the way so that it's not a lingering distraction," he wrote.

After averaging 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game at USC last season, Bronny James was drafted by the Lakers with the No. 55 overall pick. He had an up-and-down performance in the team's summer league games but is expected to start the season with the Lakers.

Related: Bronny James Named 'Standout' Of NBA Draft Combine Scrimmage