Lakers News: Bronny James’ LA Future in Limbo as 7’4 Center & Conference Rival Worsen Rob Pelinka’s Dilemma

The LA Lakers may snub Bronny James in their 17th pick in the 2024 Draft. Over the last few months, a horde of rumors have pushed around the 19-year-old all over the NBA world. Notably, Shams Charania, the prominent NBA insider, stated that the Lakers showed interest in James Jr. a few weeks ago. However, another insider squashed all the claims and opened the door for new possibilities amid the latest Zack Edey Rumor.

Joe Scott, a self-proclaimed NBA Insider, stated that the Lakers are not interested in roping in Bronny in the 17th pick as per his contacts from Klutch Sports. Moreover, he also added that the Phoenix Suns have given a “nod” to pick the rising star in the draft. This update came in hours after ESPN‘s Jonathan Givony highlighted the LA side’s interest in pursuing in the 7 ‘4 Purdue star, Zack Eddey.

Givony reported that Eddey was all set to visit the Lakers regarding his recent draft projections. The latest reports anticipate the 22-year-old to get selected between the 9-19 range on draft day, considering his workout in the Combine. Importantly, the big man can reduce Anthony Davis‘ burden near the rim. Above all, the Lakers have only the 17th and 55th pick, leaving Rob Pelinka in a dilemma.

With the Suns giving the nod to rope in Bronny James in the draft, the Lakers may end up missing the star guard. In the same vein, the team may disappoint superstar, LeBron James in the process. Even though multiple reports have stated that the 4x NBA Champion has drifted away from the idea of playing alongside his son, the Lakers have to consider drafting Bronny, considering the superstar’s future in the Lakers uniform.

The latest twist in the tale left Rob Pelinka with two options. It’s either to lose Zack Eddey or lose Bronny James to their conference rival, Phoenix Suns.

Will the Lakers pick Zack Eddey over Bronny James?

The Lakers aren’t the only ones in the Zack Eddey race. With the draft predictions between 9-19 picks, the Grizzlies, Jazz, OKC, Bulls, Blazers, and Heat have an equal chance to pick him before the Lakers. So the Purple & Gold side has the odds against them to draft the much-cherished center.

On the other hand, the Suns have the 22nd pick. If at all the Lakers pull some strings and manage to draft Eddey in the 17th pick, the Valley side would pounce on Bronny after them.

Considering the point guard issues in the Suns fold, the struggling franchise may not miss out on the opportunity to grab a young guard. Moreover, Sham Charania, in an earlier post, revealed that James Jr. has accepted the Suns’ workout invite. However, everything would remain a rumor until the word hit the NBA world on June 26.

Nevertheless, Bronny James has come a long way. When the 19-year-old revealed that he would sign up for the draft, fans trolled him for his freshman-year performance. Now, the tables have turned after his impressive Draft Combine performance.

Stay tuned for more such updates, and to follow in what Shaq’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato had to say about WNBA sensation Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, this video