Bronny James has sparked considerable speculation about which team he will join after the 2024 NBA Draft, scheduled for June 26 at the Barclays Center. Many expect the Lakers to select him, given LeBron James’ repeated statements about wanting to play alongside his son before retiring. The question remains whether Bronny will be available at the 17th pick, or if the Lakers will need to trade up to secure him. Alternatively, the Lakers might not choose him at all, potentially involving a trade with another team when they are on the clock. Much remains uncertain as the draft approaches.
In a recent video, Bronny was seen practicing at the Lakers’ training facilities, fully suited in the team’s training gear. During the session, he played as a guard, performed some defense and made a three-point shot. The video fueled the ongoing debate about whether the Lakers will fulfill LeBron’s wish during his final years in the NBA. Some critics argue that selecting Bronny could be a mistake, potentially compromising the final chapters of “The King’s” storied career.
During his time at the University of Southern California (USC), Bronny James made notable contributions to the Trojans’ basketball team. Despite facing significant pressure due to his famous lineage, he demonstrated his skills as a capable guard, contributing both offensively and defensively. He has shown sparkles but lacks the statistics to justify a high draft pick. With just 4.8 points per game on 36.6% shooting, along with 2.8 rebounds and 2.1 assists in over 19 minutes, selecting him at 17th overall (where the Lakers currently stand) would be seen as a significant reach.
LeBron will enter the next season as the oldest player in the NBA at 40 years old, indicating that he needs more support compared to recent seasons. Since winning the championship in 2020, the Lakers have struggled to find consistent playoff support beyond Anthony Davis.
While the opportunity is ripe, many doubt Bronny’s ability to turn the Lakers’ situation around. Nonetheless, it would be very interesting watching this father-son duo, and if indeed they’ll take the court together in the NBA.
