Anthony Davis ponders if Bronny James might be ready for instant impact: "Who knows"
Los Angeles Lakers star Anthony Davis gave his opinion about what he thought of Bronny James's readiness for the NBA before Thursday's second round. Bronny, the son of Lakers star LeBron James, was selected 55th overall, fulfilling many analysts' predictions of a father-son duo.
But Bronny's readiness to actually play alongside his dad right away remains a question mark. His athleticism and basketball genealogy are not to be questioned, but his issues in college make many wary.
Before the second round, ESPN's reporter spoke with Lakers star Anthony Davis. AD offered a measured response, saying:
"He's very good defensively," Davis told ESPN. "He can read the floor very well. I think he's a really good playmaker. I saw him work out a couple times besides the [Klutch Sports] pro day and working with a big...."
"But one thing about Bronny, from what I've seen and what I heard, he wants to create his own path and he doesn't want to be -- even though he's LeBron James' son, he don't want be seen as that. And I think having that mindset and trying to create his own path is going to work out for him. ... Who knows, he might come in and be ready to play for us."
The Lakers, currently navigating a period of transition, may view Bronny as a long-term project. Playing alongside veterans like LeBron James and Anthony Davis could provide the perfect environment for him to grow.
AD's comments highlight the balancing act the Lakers face. The team certainly wants to maximize that Bronny-related excitement, but they also want to ensure player development.
Bronny James' reaction after being drafted by Lakers
On Thursday, Bronny James' dreams came true when he was picked 55th pick in the second round by the LA Lakers, the team his father, LeBron James, plays for. Bronny and LeBron could potentially become the first father-and-son duo to play together in the NBA.
Bronny entered the NBA after months of speculation over whether his name would be heard in the draft and join LeBron on an NBA roster.
Bronny James shared his reaction on X after getting drafted by the Lakers, expressing his emotions and gratitude.
Bronny James's NBA dream almost got sidelined by a heart scare early in his freshman year of college. He recovered from a cardiac arrest due to a congenital heart defect, which required surgery.
Bronny was cleared to play before the NBA draft combine and impressed in the event. His stock raised (40.5-inch vertical jump) and he finished third in a 3-point shooting showcase - an area of his game scouts were concerned about due to subpar college numbers.
Now, Bronny is in the NBA with the Lakers and only time will tell if he is ready to follow in his father's footsteps.