surprising move: Jazz head coach will hardy has been issued together legend Bronny James with a…..
Bronny James began his efforts to boost his draft prospects this week by participating in the 2024 NBA draft combine, following his time as a guard at USC. He underwent various physical tests and joined scrimmages with other draft candidates. His parents, LeBron and Gloria, were present to support him.
Initial reports from the combine indicate that James is making progress toward his goals. On Thursday, Krysten Peek, an NBA draft analyst for Yahoo! Sports, reported that the Utah Jazz might be considering selecting James with the 32nd pick in the 2024 draft, the second pick of the second round.
“The Jazz have shown interest in scheduling an individual workout for Bronny and may consider drafting him with the 32nd pick,” Peek wrote. “The team has been steadily rebuilding under Danny Ainge’s guidance, and adding Bronny could potentially attract a superstar like LeBron, giving owner Ryan Smith the boost he’s looking for.”
Being chosen at No. 32 would be a significant achievement for James, who is currently viewed as a mid-second round pick at best. The only other team showing interest so far is the Los Angeles Lakers, who have the 55th pick, and they are a natural fit since they aim to retain LeBron for as long as possible.
The Jazz could be a favorable environment for James to develop, as they are not in a hurry to win immediately after two successful rebuilding seasons. They have ample assets, so using a pick on James wouldn’t pose a significant opportunity cost. While they’ve invested in backcourt players, none have secured an irreplaceable spot, leaving room for James if he proves himself.
However, the Jazz might be setting themselves up for disappointment if they draft James hoping to attract LeBron. Rich Paul, LeBron’s agent, has made it clear that LeBron won’t necessarily follow Bronny. Additionally, the Jazz are not in a position to contend for a championship while LeBron can still perform at a high level, especially as he turns 38 next year.
While LeBron might eventually accept a minor role to play with his son in the twilight of his career, this slim chance isn’t a strong enough reason for Utah to draft Bronny. It would be intriguing to see Danny Ainge attempt this move after many years of rivalry with LeBron in the Eastern Conference.
