Bronny James has been the subject of more discussion in the NBA Draft this season than the No. 1 overall pick, Zaccharie Risacher of France. Since LeBron James’ eldest son was not selected by any team during the first round of the college selection, not even by the club where his father plays: the Los Angeles Lakers.
Being the son of one of the greatest basketball players of all time brings with it both advantages and challenges. Although he was not a first-round pick, many analysts believe that simply being a “James” could be enough for a team to decide to give him a chance in the future.
Meanwhile, Zaccharie Risacher of France was selected as the first overall pick in the draft. Despite his impressive talent and potential, Risacher hasn’t generated as much buzz as Bronny James.
The Lakers’ motives
Despite talk of teams like the Phoenix Suns trying to lure LeBron James by drafting his son, it has become clear that the Lakers are the most logical destination for Bronny. However, the fact that he was not selected by them in the first round raises questions about his future in the NBA.
The question many fans and analysts have asked is: why didn’t Bronny James hear his name called when the Lakers picked 17th overall? The answer was so obvious that it was obvious to the naked eye: Bronny did not guarantee a first-round pick in the NBA Draft.
A collegiate step without many high points
His first year with the USC Trojans was not one that would have secured him a first-round pick, as he averaged 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds and 2.1 assists in 25 appearances.
While coming back from a serious heart condition was a notable triumph, that fact alone does not justify a Night 1 draft pick. Other NBA hopefuls also face challenges and have to wait for their chance.
Despite the criticism, Bronny James has the potential to prove himself in the NBA, especially as a defensive specialist, being an excellent blocker on the perimeter, with impressive lateral quickness, strength and a lot of activity at the point of attack. Additionally, he has the ability to fight through screens and make it difficult for the opponent to handle the ball, taking a physical and determined approach.
Was it a good idea to enter the Draft?
Considering the possibility of a first-round pick, Bronny could have benefited from staying another year in college, whether at USC or elsewhere. However, the opportunity to play alongside his father in the NBA added pressure to the decision to enter the draft.
At the end of the day, the Lakers’ decision was made in a very cerebral way, considering that there would be no risk of any other team taking LeBron James’ son in the first round. In exchange, they used their turn to bring in Dalton Knecht, a projected top-10 prospect, to hope that no one else notices Bronny so that perhaps they can sign him in a later round.
