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NBA Draft 2024 Rumors: Bronny James Linked to 76ers by Rival Teams amid Lakers Buzz

Adam WellsApril 12, 2024

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - MARCH 13: Bronny James #6 of the USC Trojans handles the ball in the first half of a first round game against the Washington Huskies during the Pac-12 Conference basketball tournament at T-Mobile Arena on March 13, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Trojans defeated the Huskies 80-74. (Photo by David Becker/Getty Images)
David Becker/Getty Images

If Bronny James remains in the 2024 NBA draft, there are two teams that stand out as potential landing spots for the 19-year-old.

The Athletic's Sam Vecenie noted the Los Angeles Lakers are the obvious destination for James, but opposing teams most often bring up the Philadelphia 76ers as a possible fit.

If LeBron James remains with the Lakers, either by exercising his $51.4 million option for next season or signing a new contract, it wouldn't be a surprise if they are the team that drafts Bronny.

LeBron holds a lot of power over any organization he is a part of. The 20-time All-Star has made no secret of his desire to play in the NBA with his son, including using it as part of a commercial.

LeBron James @KingJames

Let's do it again…and again…and again 🚀🚀🚀💪🏾👑 <a href="https://twitter.com/beatsbydre?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@beatsbydre</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ThekidfromAKRON?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ThekidfromAKRON</a>🤴🏾 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/beatspartner?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#beatspartner</a> <a href="https://t.co/TsrsF3lTiB">pic.twitter.com/TsrsF3lTiB</a>

The Lakers could have both of their picks in the 2024 draft. They already own their second-round selection, but the New Orleans Pelicans have the rights to their first-round pick as part of the Anthony Davis trade.

New Orleans also has the option to defer the pick until 2025, which The Ringer's Kevin O'Connor reported is likely going to happen.

The main impetus for a team like the Sixers to draft Bronny would be in an attempt to entice LeBron to come play with him. Bronny could develop into a good NBA player at some point, but there's not a great deal of enthusiasm for his pro prospects right now after an underwhelming freshman year at USC.

76ers president of basketball operations Daryl Morey is always hunting for stars. He reportedly made trade inquiries for LeBron, Kevin Durant and Devin Booker before the trade deadline this season.

Keith Pompey of the Philadelphia Inquirer recently noted Paul George is expected to be the Sixers' top free-agent target this summer if he opts out of his contract with the Los Angeles Clippers.

The 76ers could have up to $56 million in cap space this summer. The draft comes before free agency, so we might get a strong indication about their interest in LeBron if they do take Bronny, likely in the second round if it happens.

Of course, this is all dependent on Bronny staying in the 2024 draft. He announced his intention to declare for the draft last week but also said he was maintaining his college eligibility and entering the transfer portal.