61% of Lakers fans want to draft Bronny; here's our argument for and against

by Ben Cooper

James Snook/USA TODAY Sports

According to a recent LADE poll, 61% of fans want the Lakers to draft Bronny James. Bronny, the son of LeBron James, is in the 2024 NBA Draft and expected to be a second-round pick.

The 19-year-old struggled offensively in his rookie campaign at USC, averaging 5/3/2 on 37/27/68 shooting splits.

While Bronny’s numbers are less than impressive, he has played well on the defensive end of the floor. He is a great point-of-attack defender and impressed at the draft combine.

His combine performance climbed him up the draft boards. 

With that in mind, let’s break down the reasons for and against drafting Bronny.

Why the Lakers should draft Bronny

There are multiple reasons why the Lakers should consider drafting Bronny. The obvious reason is to appease LeBron, who would love the opportunity to play with his son.

However, the Purple and Gold should also look into drafting him due to his defensive play. Bronny’s quality defense and athleticism give him the potential to turn into a solid two-way guard.

Bronny seems aware of his play. At the combine, he compared himself to Jrue Holiday, Davion Mitchell, and Derrick White and said he wants to affect winning that way.

Mitchell, in particular, is a great comparison for Bronny as an undersized defensive first guard who still needs to develop on offense.

Another reason to consider drafting Bronny is the potential on the business side for the LakeShow. Fans may not like this factor, but the Lakers' front office may consider it.

Having Bronny play with his father could help with social media, public relations campaigns, and jersey sales.

Bronny may also spend most of the year in the G-League with the South Bay Lakers, which could drive more ticket sales and revenue to their affiliate. 

When selecting Bronny, factors to consider are his potential as a two-way guard, his potential to play alongside his father, and his business potential.

Why the Lakers should not draft Bronny

With all the positives in mind, let’s break down the negatives of drafting Bronny. 

Bronny struggled in his freshman year at USC, making him more of an unknown as a prospect. 

Other teams seem interested in Bronny, and it’s important that LA doesn’t reach for him. The Phoenix Suns are reportedly interested in him with the 22nd overall pick and reportedly hope LeBron will follow him there.

While that is highly unlikely, the Lakers can’t let the rumors of Bronny going higher in the draft sway them to selecting him with the 17th overall pick.

The LakeShow must use that pick on a more proven prospect or trade the pick to upgrade their roster. 

There are clear positives and negatives to drafting Bronny. Rob Pelinka should only consider him with a second-round pick, as he could develop into a solid two-way guard.

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