The Lakers nation has arrived at the moment of truth. Finally, after a long hunt, the LA side officially announced JJ Redick as their head coach, days before the 2024 NBA Draft. Now that one of their biggest holes is covered, it’s time for the Bronny James update. While the critics debated over the 19-year-old’s possibility to get picked in the 17th or 55th pick, Redick revealed his desperate plan, completely aligning with Bronny’s agent Rich Paul’s stance.

In 2012, Rich Paul started his agency to represent NBA stars and since then he has handled the affairs from superstars to young guns. In the latest podcast episode with Gilbert Arenas, Paul addressed the mental toll that an aspiring NBA player would go through ahead of the draft. He also added how parents’ wishes for their sons may vary from reality. Paul said, “There’s also an abundance of lying to these people throughout the years.” 

And, stressing on that, Paul added a solution, saying, “It’s just you have to identify with those that identify with you.” And rightly so, Bronny James may have identified his perfect mentor, heading into his NBA career. JJ Redick, speaking at his formal introduction as an LA Lakers coach, addressed developing talents from the G-League level.

In his introductory presser, Redick revealed his plans to fill in the “last roster spot” and it might be the ‘moment of truth’ for Bronny. He said, “Players in the G League, second-round picks, undrafted players, guys on the Summer League roster. Can they fit with who we’re trying to be? I’ll just be honest with you. A big thing for me is you need two-way players. You need guys that can guard to be a championship-level team.” With this statement, Redick may have leaked their verdict for the 19-year-old in the upcoming season!

Where does Bronny James’ future lie?

The Lakers have two draft picks heading into the 2024 Draft. And, Bronny James has reportedly only attended the Phoenix Suns and Lakers training sessions. So, it’s likely either the Valley side or the LA team that could rope in the young guard. The recent reports revealed that the Suns could trade down their only available draft pick (22nd) and get more picks in the second round. With that update, they’ve almost ruled themselves out of the Bronny James race.

On the other hand, the Lakers with the 17th and 55th picks showed interest in picking up Zack Edey in the first round. While it initially hinted at the possibility of the LA side missing out on Bronny, JJ Redick’s latest statement has instilled hope. Even if the Lakers decide not to pick him in the draft, they can develop him for the future by making him a two-way player. Meanwhile, Bronny James, who is about to live through the important day of his life, said, “I just want to hear my name called,” as per Rich Paul.

Moreover, he stressed about the “role” that Bronny will have in the Lakers or any fold. According to him, it doesn’t matter if the player is “ranked No. 1 or 1,001″ but it’s important to have a role on the side. Which role do you think LeBron’s son will have and where?

Let us know in the comments.

Before you go, do not forget to check out Shaquille O’Neal’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato, to open up about the infamous Shaq-Kobe feud. Keep checking this space for more such updates.