Bronny James is currently immersed in the draft process, having recently completed both the NBA Draft Combine and Klutch Sports Pro Day at the Lakers’ practice facility.
His agent, Rich Paul, who also represents Lakers players LeBron James and Anthony Davis, has talked with Chris Haynes of Bleacher Report about a contract Bronny will not be signing this summer.
Paul saying this is a strong statement to all teams that Bronny wants to be on an NBA roster only. Many second round draft picks become two-way players, splitting their time between the NBA and the G-league and that doesn’t appear to be a path Klutch wants Bronny to consider.
Making this statement likely means some teams will be out on drafting Bronny. If they do select him, they either have to give Bronny a roster spot or drop him altogether since a two-way deal is something he will not be signing.
While Bronny James may deter some teams, the Lakers and others are expected to give him a workout before the 2024 NBA Draft. Given the high interest in his potential, it’s likely that someone will draft him this June, despite a two-way contract being off the table.
Lakers fans are keen for the team to draft Bronny, and with this year’s draft class considered one of the weaker ones in recent memory, taking a chance on the son of their biggest star isn’t a bad idea. However, it’s uncertain whether the Lakers will actually draft him or even retain their current picks.
The New Orleans Pelicans still have the option to take the Lakers’ No. 17 pick as part of the Anthony Davis trade, but reports suggest they are inclined to let the Lakers keep the pick and instead take the 2025 first-round pick.
Lakers vice president of basketball operations Rob Pelinka has hinted at the possibility of making a “big swing” this summer with their three first-round draft picks, which might be a greater focus in late June than any specific draft prospect.
We’ll keep an eye on this situation as it evolves, but one thing is certain: Rich Paul does not want Bronny to join a team on a two-way contract, and the Lakers are diligently evaluating which draft prospects could be a good fit for their roster.
