NBA Draft 2024 live updates
In 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 have been active NBA players — and potentially the first time a father-son duo have been teammates, depending on what happens with LeBron this summer. Bronny, 19, is a 6-foot-2 3-and-D guard who will likely spend the majority of next season in the G League. After suffering a cardiac arrest last summer, it’s a miracle Bronny was able to play basketball again, let alone pursue his dream of playing in the NBA. He still has a long way to go as a prospect, but the Lakers are overhauling their player development team and strategy and are confident they can maximize his potential.
In theory, this selection should solidify LeBron’s return to the Lakers, either in the form of an option on his $51.4 million contract or an opt-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 are a package deal. Only time will tell the truth. Either way, this is a historic moment and another example of the Lakers going above and beyond to accommodate their superstars, which is a great point of pride for the organization.
