The argument for drafting Bronny James and the argument against it

Why would an NBA team take Bronny James in the 2024 NBA Draft?

As has been long discussed, LeBron has a well-documented desire to play in the NBA at the same time as his son, whether on the same team or against one another. The 20-time All-Star has played fantastic basketball in his age-39 season, averaging 25.4 points per game while shooting a career-high 41.6 percent from beyond the arc.

While Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul, who represents both James and his son, has made it clear that getting Bronny drafted into the NBA doesn't require he play for the same team as his father, it seems to be the dream scenario for LeBron.

Ahead of the 2024-25 season, James has a player option worth $51 million baked into the final year of his two-year, $99 million deal with the Lakers. The 2024 NBA Draft takes place on June 27th, two days before the deadline for LeBron to decide lock in his final year with Los Angeles or decline and enter the open free agency market.

Despite the smoke screens, the end game for teams has always been clear: taking Bronny in the draft makes your team LeBron's desired destination, and he has a clean route to get there. Whether it will work out that way remains to be seen but for a four-time MVP award winner still playing All-Star caliber basketball, it could be worth the risk.

Alongside LeBron, Bronny may see his best chance at flourishing into a legitimate NBA talent. Comparing a young player to LeBron is always unfair but with his unique connection to one of the game's greatest players, Bronny comes with an understanding of basketball and the life around it that many players do not possess.

On the court, Bronny plays a brand of basketball that focuses on his ability as a two-way player. He is an effective catch-and-shoot option who plays strong perimeter defense. If he continues to develop his capabilities on offense, he could be a helpful addition to a championship-contending team.