In arguably the least surprising selection of the 2024 NBA Draft, the Lakers drafted Bronny James Jr., the son of Lakers superstar LeBron James. It’s a monumental moment that marks the first time a father-son duo has been an active NBA player — and potentially the first time a father-son duo has been teammates, depending on what happens with LeBron this summer. Bronny, 19, is a 6-foot-2 3-D guard who will likely spend most of next season in the G League. After suffering a cardiac arrest last summer, it’s a miracle that Bronny was able to play basketball again, let alone pursue his dream of playing in the NBA. He still has a ways to go as a prospect, but the Lakers are revamping their team and player development strategy and are confident they can maximize his potential.
In theory, this selection should solidify LeBron’s return to the Lakers, whether in the form of an option on his $51.4 million contract or opting out and re-signing. At the same time, LeBron and his agent and Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul – who is also Bronny’s agent – have denied that the two constitute a package deal. Only time will tell us the truth. Regardless, this is a historic moment and another example of how the Lakers are going above and beyond to meet the needs of their superstars, which is a source of considerable pride for the organization.
