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USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

The 2024 NBA draft is just around the corner. With a range of special talents in line to turn pro, the upcoming spectacle will also provide a glimpse of how the future of men’s professional basketball will take shape. Many would believe that one of the most talked about basketball stars Bronny James can also be a worthy inclusion in that future. But, what are the chances of him being drafted this year? Let’s dig deep and find out!

The last few months have been a roller coaster ride for the former USC guard. After his underperforming freshman season with the Trojans, Bronny James faced another disappointment when he was not a part of the mock drafts conducted by ESPN. Nonetheless, the tides started to turn in his favor after his participation in the 2024 NBA Draft Combine held in Chicago recently. Moreover, he has also missed the deadline for a possible return to college basketball. Consequently, this has increased his chances of not only attending the event but might as well be included in a renowned franchise.

A max vertical leap of 40.5 inches and a second place in the 3-point star shooting drill. Those are the credentials that further Bronny’s cause in the upcoming drafts. In addition to this, James’ agent, Rich Paul confirmed how his decision to turn pro is still intact. In an interview with ESPN, he said, “He’s a really good prospect who has a lot of room for growth”. This news received further validation when the all-time leading scorer in NBA history and Bronny’s father LeBron James later confirmed it in one of his Instagram stories. He captioned, “BRONNY STAYING IN DRAFT!” 

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Now, it will be interesting to see what could be the possible destination for Bronny James.

Which teams could fancy their chances with Bronny James?

According to experts, it is highly unlikely that Bronny James can turn out to be a lottery pick this year. Still, various drafts place him between the range of 54 to 57. A 54th position would mean that he could be part of the reigning NBA champions, the Boston Celtics. However, with the Lakers grabbing the next draft, there is also a possibility of fans witnessing him play alongside his father. While King James has the option to turn into a free agent, the inclusion of his son could be a luring factor for the franchise.

USA Today via Reuters

Rich Paul provided further insights on this by saying, “LeBron is off this idea of having to play with Bronny. If he does, he does. But if he doesn’t, he doesn’t. There’s no deal made that it’s guaranteed that if the Lakers draft Bronny at 55, he [LeBron] will re-sign. If that was the case, I would force them to take him at 17. We don’t need leverage.”

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Anyhow, he also speculated that the 19-year-old could also land in teams like Minnesota, Dallas, and Toronto. He added, “If it’s not the Lakers, it will be someone else. Minnesota would love to get Bronny in. Nico Harrison (Mavs GM) is like an uncle to Bronny. If the Lakers don’t take him at 55, Dallas will take him at 58 and give him a guaranteed deal. Masai Ujiri, (Raptors president) loves him.” 

Whether Bronny James gets drafted or not, it will be worth a watch. Nonetheless, recent developments suggest that he might feature in the event. But, only time will tell if this theory substantiates something conclusive or not.

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Stay tuned for more such updates, and to follow what Shaq’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato, has to say about the infamous Shaq-Kobe feud, Caitlin Clark’s Olympic snub, and more, watch this video.