Well, it actually happened. With the 55th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, the Los Angeles Lakers did pick LeBron “Bronny” James Jr. It was a move that was rumored to happen for a long time, and LA did pull the trigger on the pick. It was an interesting decision, as draft analysts didn't have Bronny going in any round of the draft.
The decision to draft Bronny led some fans to call it a “nepo hire”. Many criticized the Lakers and LeBron James for allowing the younger James to get into the draft by what they call “nepotism”. Adrian Wojnarowski took offense to these criticisms. The NBA insider said that it was hypocritical that fans are calling out the nepotism now when nepotism has been rampant in the NBA. (video via SportsCenter on Instagram)
“I don't want to hear the charges, people talking about nepotism,” Wojarnowski said on ESPN's draft show. “The NBA is full of nepotism. The ownership level, front offices, coaching. I don't want to hear about it all of a sudden because Bronny James' father plays for the Lakers. It is rampant in this league.”
Woj does bring up a good point. Nepotism is prevalent in the NBA. The Lakers drafting LeBron's son isn't the first instance, and it won't be the last. From players asking teams to hire their personal coach as staff to coaches choosing close associates as assistants, it's something that's been going on in the league. There are many instances of nepotism hires in the league.
That certainly does not excuse the Lakers from any criticism with this pick, though. Critics will argue that LA could've used this pick on a better rated prospect that Bronny. Then again… if it's LeBron who wants Bronny drafted, LA will most likely acquiesce to their star.
Bronny's future with Lakers
Of course, this doesn't mean that Bronny won't develop into an actual NBA talent in the future. He will never be LeBron Sr. (and frankly, no one else will be), but Bronny can carve out a role for himself with the Lakers. There are many stories of prospects that weren't well-regarded that ended up being a difference-maker. He will get some heat for being picked, but he has the opportunity to prove his doubters wrong.
It also makes sense from the Lakers perspective why they chose to draft Bronny instead of a different prospect. As it stands, LA is in win-now mode. A late second-round pick isn't likely going to contribute to their title chances in any meaningful way. Why not instead use that pick to make sure that your top star will stay with your team for the foreseeable future? It's an unconventional way of doing things, but it kind of works, right?
The Lakers will now turn their attention to preparing for the upcoming 2024-25 season. This season will be interesting, as this will be the head coaching debut of former NBA star JJ Redick. After a disappointing 2023 season, LA is looking to bounce back. Will this new-look crew be able to finish the job?
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