Lakers Unlikely To Draft Bronny James With No. 17 Pick

Photo: Instagram/Bronny James

The Los Angeles Lakers are preparing for the 2023 NBA Draft with two picks: No. 17 and No. 55. Despite much speculation, fans shouldn't expect the Lakers to select Bronny James, son of Lakers star LeBron James, with their first-round pick.

The Lakers, who haven't played since late April, are currently focused on finding a new head coach and scouting for the draft. Bronny James, who has received significant media attention due to his famous father, has been a name frequently mentioned in connection with the Lakers.

However, LeBron has recently tried to let his son forge his own path, saying it's "no longer a priority" for them to play together. Adrian Wojnarowski, on his podcast "The Woj Pod," said the Lakers are "not considering Bronny James at No. 17." Wojnarowski suggested that if the Lakers wanted Bronny earlier than pick 55, they would need to trade up but noted that it wouldn't be a good value pick at 17.

Photo: Instagram/Bronny James

While the Lakers might pass on Bronny at 17, drafting him later is still a possibility. Bronny showcased his skills at Klutch Sports Pro Day and had individual workouts with the Suns and Lakers. His agent, Rich Paul, has indicated that Bronny will not sign a two-way contract, which could make teams hesitant to pick him.

If the Lakers aim to draft Bronny at No. 55, they must hope another team, like the Suns, doesn't select him first. This approach would allow the Lakers to use their top pick for an immediate contributor or trade it for additional assets, and still potentially get Bronny in the second round.

The situation remains fluid, and the final outcome will be clear on NBA Draft night, June 27.

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Source: Silver Screen And Roll