5 NBA teams that are most likely to draft Bronny James ft. Lakers
The 2024 NBA draft is just hours away from starting, with Bronny James close to learning about where he'll play in the association. After months of rumors and speculation, he's likely to hear Adam Silver say his name late in the first on Wednesday or in the second round on Thursday.
Even though the LA Lakers have been mentioned as a potential landing spot for the young player, other franchises have reportedly shown interest in him. Depending on how the two-night event goes, they could snatch James away from the Lakers and his father, LeBron James.
Here are the five NBA teams that are most likely to draft Bronny James.
Top 5 potential landing spots for Bronny James in 2024 NBA Draft
#5, Miami Heat
The Miami Heat could take Bronny James at No. 43 or wait a little longer to put their hands on the USC product. Coach Erik Spoelstra and team president Pat Riley can develop undrafted players like nobody else, and Bronny's style of play would fit right in with the Heat culture.
#4, Toronto Raptors
The 2019 NBA champion Toronto Raptors have a young core that strives to compete in the future. Led by Scottie Barnes, this team can be a solid option for Bronny. Super agent Rich Paul said that Toronto president Masa Ujiri "loves him" and they could take the young guard at No. 31.
#3, Dallas Mavericks
Rich Paul said in the predraft process that Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison is like an "uncle" to Bronny James, which would open the doors for the reigning Western Conference champions. With Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving taking him under his wing, the Mavs could get a young guard for the future at No. 58 if the Lakers don't draft him three positions earlier.
#2, Philadelphia 76ers
The Philadelphia 76ers have big plans for this offseason. They've been linked with a move for LA Clippers star Paul George, but offseason rumors have it that they're also keeping tabs on LeBron James' situation in Los Angeles. After missing out on the King in 2018, they could make another push for James, and drafting Bronny would help them complete the job.
#1, LA Lakers
The favorite team to land Bronny James has been the LA Lakers, where his father won an NBA championship four years ago. After LeBron said that he wanted to share the court with Bronny, the Lakers became the top squad to land him. Living in the city, playing for USC and working out with the Lakers, it makes sense that they end up drafting him.
However, it won't be easy, as four other teams are also attractive options for Bronny.