Former NBA executive and current insider Bobby Marks believes it is highly likely that the Los Angeles Lakers will draft Bronny James if he is available. Bronny, the 19-year-old son of LeBron James, is entering the 2024 NBA Draft with mixed reviews.
Despite early projections placing Bronny outside the second round, he is now expected to go late in the second round. The Lakers hold the No. 17 and No. 55 picks in the draft, and Marks anticipates they will use one of these picks on Bronny if he remains available.
Marks described Bronny as a two-year developmental player who is unlikely to play in the NBA immediately. Instead, he sees Bronny starting his professional career in the G League, where he can develop further.
In his debut season with USC, Bronny averaged 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists in 19.4 minutes per game. He is seen as needing more time to mature as a player.
Marks emphasized that an NBA team with multiple picks might take a chance on Bronny due to his potential and marketability. The connection to LeBron James adds significant intrigue to any team considering drafting him.
“If he’s at 55 where the Lakers are, I would be stunned if they don’t go in that direction here,” Marks stated, reflecting the widespread belief that the Lakers will seize the opportunity to draft Bronny.
The upcoming draft will be pivotal for Bronny’s career, and the Lakers’ decisions will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike. As Bronny continues to develop, his progress will be an ongoing storyline in the basketball world.
