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LeBron and Bronny James will soon suit up as teammates for the Los Angeles Lakers. A recent story from ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne suggests that nearly wasn’t the case.
The Lakers selected Bronny James with the 55th pick, but the Golden State Warriors were reportedly interested in drafting him three spots earlier.
They ultimately chose not to do so out of “respect” for their Western Conference rival.
[JJ] Redick was in the room when the Lakers made history and a dream into reality.
He stood next to Pelinka as the Golden State Warriors, who had tried to trade for James last season, weighed whether to take Bronny at No. 52. The Warriors liked Bronny’s skill set and had him on their draft board, sources said. Selecting him ahead of the Lakers, who held the 55th pick, would’ve been a shrewd move — perhaps even to entice James to sign there as a free agent. But ultimately, sources said, the Warriors opted to respect the wishes James had made clear and the Lakers signaled they would grant.
The Warriors were apparently high enough on Bronny James’ talents to at least think about pulling the trigger. Had they decided to do so, there could’ve been major impacts.
Firstly, it would’ve potentially made LeBron and his son rivals in the same division as opposed to teammates in Los Angeles. Or, even more substantial, it could’ve led to LeBron’s exit.
James had the choice to decline his player-option and become a free agent at year’s end. Many speculated on whether he’d ultimately sign with the team that drafted Bronny.
While his agent shut down the idea of the duo being a “package deal,” most believe it was on the table!
Luckily, they never had to cross that bridge.
The Warriors passed on Bronny James, taking Quinten Post out of Boston College instead.
LeBron seems to be happy with that decision as he and his son will now have the opportunity to play alongside one another before he retires.
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It should be fun to see them together on the floor.