The Los Angeles Lakers are in the midst of a pivotal offseason. LeBron James is a free agent and the franchise is searching for a new head coach. In the meantime, rumors are the front office is seriously considering selecting Bronny James in the 2024 NBA Draft.

Many believe this to be the case already as it could be a way to lure LeBron James to remain in Los Angeles.

But it sounds like the Lakers are “widely expected” to pursue Bronny James in the NBA Draft this year, according to Eric Pincus of Bleacher Report.

However, the Philadelphia 76ers could be in the mix for Bronny as well.

“The Lakers are widely expected to draft Bronny either with one of their own two picks (Nos. 17 or 55) or by trading up in the second round. The Sixers have the leverage over the Lakers with higher selections in both rounds, though.”

Bronny James didn’t have the best year as a freshman at USC. He could largely benefit from playing at least one more year at the college level. But LeBron James’ son is determined to play in the NBA next season. At the very least, he looked solid during the NBA Combine and potentially raised his draft stock because of it.

The Lakers are a team with championship hopes every season. Additionally, the front office clearly wants to bring LeBron James back on a new contract. So, it makes sense for LA to show interest in possibly drafting Bronny James. It could be exactly what the team needs to do to persuade LeBron to re-sign with the organization.

Are the Lakers the best fit for Bronny James?
Bronny James
© Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports
When it comes down to it, Bronny James is the type of player that needs time to develop. Considering the Lakers are a win-now team, they may not have the time to help with his developmental process.

You’d think a team that’s rebuilding would be interested in Bronny James. They’d have the time and tools necessary to help him learn and become a better professional player. A few teams that could be a tremendous fit for Bronny are the San Antonio Spurs, Washington Wizards, and Toronto Raptors.

If the Lakers don’t draft Bronny James, then the Spurs should be a team to watch. James would have the privilege of playing alongside Victor Wembanyama. Additionally, the Spurs are in need of a point guard. Bronny would be playing with one of the best prospects in the league with Greg Popovich coaching him.

Meanwhile, the Wizards are a team that could use a point guard themselves. They have several intriguing prospects already and Bronny James would develop alongside them. Lastly, the Raptors are a team that desperately needs more prospects. They don’t own a first-round selection but they could be in the mix for Bronny if he falls to the second round.