The Los Angeles Lakers selected Bronny James with the 55th overall pick in the second round, setting the stage for LeBron James to fulfill his dream of playing alongside his son. This historic selection paves the way for the first father-son duo ever to play together in the NBA.
However, the decision quickly ignited debate among fans and analysts. Critics argued that Bronny was picked due to nepotism, influenced by his father’s legendary status, and that the Lakers may have overlooked more talented prospects.
Despite the intense scrutiny Bronny, as a second-round pick, shouldn’t be expected to carry the same immediate expectations as a first-round selection. Former Houston Rockets champion and NBA analyst Kenny Smith echoed this sentiment, stressing that the Lakers are giving Bronny time to develop at his own pace.
Kenny Smith defends Lakers’ draft
Kenny Smith believes that Bronny was deserving of his draft position, emphasizing that the Lakers are looking at the long-term potential: “I think as the 55th pick, he deserved that,” Smith told DJ Siddiqi of Responsible Gambling.
Bronny James Jr. #9 of the Los Angeles Lakers drives to the basket on Dane Goodwin #33 of the Sacramento Kings during the second half of a 2024 California Classic summer league game at Chase Center
Smith elaborated further: “When you’re in that second round, we’re waiting on you, we’re waiting for you to develop. That’s what that really means. Bronny was a McDonald’s All-American, one of the top guards in his class as a freshman. The Lakers are waiting for him to grow into his potential. The same thing applies to Isaiah Collier, who played with him at USC and was drafted in the first round. Collier didn’t have a standout year at USC, but both he and Bronny are players the league is waiting on to blossom.”
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Smith’s defense highlights the patience required in player development, especially for second-round picks, as the Lakers and the NBA community anticipate Bronny James’ future impact on the court.
