The Lakers’ Gamble

As the dust settles on the NBA Finals, the Boston Celtics emerge victorious over the Dallas Mavericks, clinching an unprecedented 18th title. The spotlight now shifts to the much-anticipated 2024 NBA Draft. The focus is not just on the potential top pick, French prodigy Alex Sarr, but also on LeBron James’ son, Bronny James.

With less than a week to go, the Atlanta Hawks hold the coveted No. 1 pick. However, the buzz is all about Bronny James. His stint at the University of Southern California was far from impressive, averaging less than five points per game. This has led to doubts about his ability to match his father’s legendary NBA career.

Despite these glaring weaknesses, the general consensus is that the Los Angeles Lakers will select him with their 55th pick in the second round of the upcoming draft.

The Lakers, fresh from their controversial decision to appoint JJ Redick as head coach, are rumored to be considering another puzzling move. They might draft Bronny, a decision that some critics argue smacks of nepotism.

ESPN’s Chris ‘Mad Dog’ Russo recently voiced his skepticism on The Dan Patrick Show, questioning the wisdom of drafting Bronny James. “He scored four points a game at USC. He wouldn’t even play at UConn. He needs another year of college basketball,” Russo argued.

The Lakers’ potential decision to draft Bronny James seems counterintuitive. The team needs immediate impact players, not a project player like Bronny. However, the final decision remains to be seen. The future of Bronny James and whether the Lakers will gamble a draft pick on him will only be revealed in time.