As the NBA playoffs rage on, a notable storyline has emerged from the NBA Draft Combine held in Chicago from May 13-19. Bronny James, son of NBA superstar LeBron James, managed to capture significant attention during the event. Among the 78 prospects invited, Bronny was undoubtedly one of the most scrutinized players in attendance.
Bronny’s performance with the USC Trojans during the season was modest. He averaged 4.8 points per game, shooting 36.6% from the field and a meager 26.7% from three-point range. His initial showing at the Combine was underwhelming, leading some analysts to question his readiness for the NBA. However, Bronny rebounded with a stronger performance on the second day, shifting the narrative slightly more favorably.
There is speculation about where Bronny might land in the NBA Draft. The Los Angeles Lakers hold the 55th pick, and many believe this could be his destination if he remains on the board. Eric Pincus, an NBA analyst, commented on this possibility: “The most likely spot for him is to land with the Lakers, either at No. 55 or by the team climbing via trade to select him. The team could keep him on the standard roster or sign him as a two-way player. Either way, he would probably spend most of his time with the South Bay Lakers.”
This speculation is fueled by LeBron James‘ earlier statements about playing with his son in the NBA. Although LeBron initially claimed he would join whichever team drafted Bronny, he has since softened his stance. The four-time MVP now expresses a desire to see his son in the league, whether as a teammate or opponent. LeBron has a $51.4 million player option with the Lakers next season, giving him until June 29, 2024, to decide. Opting out would make him an unrestricted free agent, free to join any team that drafts his son.
The Lakers face a strategic decision regarding Bronny. If they draft him, he may need further development in the G League before competing for an NBA spot. Despite showing potential, Bronny’s game requires refinement to meet the league’s demands.
The timing of LeBron’s contract decision and the NBA Draft combine adds another layer of intrigue. If Bronny is selected by a team like the Philadelphia 76ers or the Orlando Magic, both of which have cap space to sign LeBron, the elder James might opt out of his contract to join his son. This potential move could create a new dynamic in the league, with teams strategizing not just for Bronny’s talent but also for the chance to acquire LeBron.
The New Orleans Pelicans have the option to take the Lakers’ first-round pick this year or defer to 2025. Current reports suggest the Pelicans might pass this year, aiming for the stronger 2025 draft class. If they do, it decreases the likelihood that the Lakers will use their No. 17 pick on Bronny, given other promising players available like Terrence Shannon, Tyler Smith, Isaiah Collier, Carlton Carrington, and KyShawn George.
Realistically, the Lakers might look to draft Bronny in the second round unless another team picks him earlier. This situation could prompt the Lakers to trade up, ensuring they secure Bronny and potentially appease LeBron.
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