What NBA scouts have to say about Bronny James as a draft prospect

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Bronny James attempts a free throw during a game against Long Beach State. (Jason Armond / Los Angeles Times)

Bronny James has declared for the NBA draft while entering the transfer portal, giving him multiple options for the next step in his basketball career.

He could go through the predraft process and return to college armed with an evaluation from NBA personnel folks. Or he could decide that after one season at USC, he’s ready to become a professional.

The latter option, should you simply look at his stats — averages of 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game — might seem ridiculous. But one year after he was named a McDonald’s All-American, there still are plenty of Bronny James fans among scouts.

Three NBA executives and scouts who specialize in college evaluations gave their thoughts, on James’ prospects as an NBA player. What they said could surprise you. The executives and scouts were granted anonymity because they are expected to keep their evaluations confidential and protect the interests of their teams.

The elephant in the room

Invariably when you talk to people about James, you start to have conversations about his father, LeBron, and what drafting the 19-year-old could do for an organization.

Read more: Bronny James declares for NBA draft, enters transfer portal

“It’s a bad draft and teams might think they can lure LeBron,” one Western Conference scout said. “So owners might take the chance in the second round because it will make them tons of money financially and they’ll sell out arenas.”

Other executives, though, believe the connection to be overblown. While LeBron James can opt out of his contract with the Lakers this summer and become an unrestricted free agent, he’d be leaving more than $51 million on the table.

James, as recently as last postseason, clarified that his “dream” of playing with Bronny in the NBA won’t outweigh what’s best for his son’s growth as a player.

“I’ve done what I’ve had to do in this league and my son is going to take his journey,” James said then. “And whatever his journey, however his journey lays out, he’s going to do…

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Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/nba-scouts-bronny-james-draft-201953410.html

Author : LA Times

Publish date : 2024-04-05 20:19:53

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