Article: Bronny James garnering attention from consistent Eastern Conference contender
While the Heat retain their first-round pick this season, the Lakers will be relinquishing theirs to the Pelicans as part of the Anthony Davis trade. Consequently, the Lakers will be reliant on Bronny falling to the second round in order to select him.
Meanwhile, the Raptors could emerge as a dark horse, given their possession of two first-round picks and a second-round pick (acquired via the Pistons). The projected early placement of the second-round pick is due to Detroit’s league-worst record this season.
There has long been speculation that LeBron James wishes to conclude his career playing alongside his son. NBA insider Marc Stein recently suggested that James might be open to taking a pay cut to have the opportunity to play with Bronny, potentially forgoing his $51 million player option with the Lakers.
James himself expressed last year that one of his remaining NBA goals is to share the court with Bronny. “I need to be on the floor with my boy, I got to be on the floor with Bronny,” James told ESPN.
It is currently premature to speculate whether Bronny will opt for a one-and-done college stint or return to USC for another season. Some anticipate he may opt for a sophomore year after a shortened freshman season due to a cardiac episode.
James has until June 29 to decide on his player option with the Lakers. The 2024 NBA Draft is scheduled for June 26-27, making the lead-up to July’s free agency period particularly intriguing.
