Will Bronny James Get Drafted by the Lakers to Fulfil Father LeBron’s Retirement Wish?

In the 75-year history of the NBA, fewer than 4,500 players have had the opportunity to play in the league. It would be an understatement to say that the odds are stacked against an aspiring hooper. Only a handful of prospects manage to fulfill their lofty pre-draft expectations, and even fewer ascend to the status of all-time greats. However, for a player dubbed the “Chosen One” even before stepping foot on an NBA court, LeBron James has not only achieved those expectations but somehow surpassed them.

LeBron has transcended the sport of basketball. His continued brilliance over the last two decades has elevated him to the status of a global icon and a symbol of the NBA. During his established NBA career, LeBron has broken multiple records. Last season in a game against the OKC Thunder, LeBron became the player with the most regular season points, surpassing Kareem Abdul Jabbar’s record of 38,387. Many had considered Kareem’s record nearly insurmountable until LeBron successfully broke it.

Now in his 21st season as an NBA professional, LeBron has continued to beat father time and stay an All-Star. Having achieved pretty much everything there is to achieve in the NBA, just one of LeBron’s dreams remains unfulfilled.

King James’ unfulfilled dream

For many people, looking past Michael Jordan as the greatest of all time is incomprehensible. However, if there’s a player who comes close to rivaling Jordan’s résumé, it is LeBron James. Over his long 20+ year career, LeBron has four NBA regular season and finals MVP awards, four NBA titles and a record 19 All-Star game appearances. He also holds the distinction of being the leading scorer in both the regular season and postseason. Currently, he has amassed 8,023 points in the playoffs and 39,038 points in the regular season.

Despite his absurd achievements in the NBA, LeBron is yet to fulfill his dream of playing with his eldest son, Bronny. He has stated on multiple occasions that he desires to share the court with Bronny. In an interview with ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, LeBron said, “I need to be on the floor with my boy. I gotta be on the floor with Bronny.” He added further, “I would love to do the whole Ken Griffey Sr./Jr. thing. That would be ideal, for sure, being with him, spending a full year with him in the same uniform, that would be the icing on the cake.” The prospect of LeBron and Bronny sharing the court could be one of the most surreal moments in NBA history. However, the question remains: Does Bronny possess the talent and desire to be drafted into the NBA?

Can Bronny fulfill his father’s dream?

After averaging 14 points, 5.4 rebounds and 2.9 assists in his senior year for Sierra Canyon, Bronny decided to join the University of Southern California’s basketball program. Bronny was well on his way to becoming a highly sought-after prospect, but fate had other plans. On 27th July, reports emerged of Bronny suffering a cardiac arrest while practicing at UCLA’s basketball facilities.

Thankfully, Bronny recovered but was diagnosed with a congenital heart defect. This revelation sparked speculation regarding his future in basketball. However, doctors determined that Bronny’s heart defect was treatable. Recently, Bronny even participated in USC’s pre-match warmups.

Prior to facing this setback, ESPN projected Bronny to become a lottery pick. However, his absence from the USC’s games this season won’t help his draft prospects. Both Bronny and LeBron are undoubtedly keen to move past this episode and strive to make a swift return to basketball. But, Bronny’s absence could be a blessing in disguise for the James family, as it could pave the way for him to play alongside his father.

How good is Bronny?

Despite not playing in a single game for USC this season, Bronny is still projected to be drafted by the Lakers with the 25th pick. Many people might suggest that LeBron would have a role in that, but Bronny has shown immense promise in his fledgling basketball career. Bronny has impressed scouts with his athleticism, playmaking, and outside shooting. However, due to his relatively small stature (6’4”), many people have apprehensions about his defensive talents.

Bronny has demonstrated exceptional defensive tenacity during his time with Sierra Canyon. He utilizes his size and athleticism to effectively hound opposing guards. What stands out most to scouts, however, are Bronny’s intangibles. Despite being the son of LeBron, he does not exhibit attitude issues. His defensive tenacity sets the tone for his team. Bronny also showcases a basketball IQ reminiscent of his father, elevating him to a level above his peers in terms of understanding the game.

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His pre-draft comparisons are Avery Bradley and Marcus Smart. Indeed fine company to be in, but levels below his superstar father. If Bronny enters the NBA, he will likely face substantial attention and lofty expectations. The key for him would be to remain unfazed by external pressures and focus on building his own legacy, not letting expectations weigh him down. The question of whether the “Prince” can ascend to become a “King” remains uncertain and only time will tell.

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