When the 2024 NBA Draft gets underway, all eyes will be on what team selects Bronny James. The son of LeBron, he’s gone through an interesting pre-draft process after leaving USC, and the updated odds are out ahead of the draft, according to FanDuel.
James reportedly only worked out for two teams – the Los Angeles Lakers and the Phoenix Suns. That’s why it makes sense they’re the favorites to select him on either Wednesday or Thursday in the first-ever two-day NBA Draft. Either way, it’ll be interesting to see where the former USC star ends up after averaging 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds and 2.1 steals last season.
But there could be other suitors, including a different Western Conference contender. Let’s dive in to the updated odds with the draft quickly approaching.
Los Angeles Lakers – -145
The heavy favorite to select Bronny James, the Lakers were one of the only teams to secure a workout with him. Los Angeles also underwent a high-profile coaching change after moving on from Darvin Ham, but with JJ Redick now at the helm, the next step will be finalizing the draft class.
The Lakers have two picks in this draft – No. 17 and No. 55. ESPN’s Jonathan Givony previously said they were “trending” toward selecting James with one of those picks, adding to the intrigue about whether he can go at No. 55.
Phoenix Suns – +650
The only other team to secure a workout with Bronny James was the Phoenix Suns. Their interest has been well-reported throughout the pre-draft process, and holding the No. 22 overall pick, could have a chance to take him if the Lakers pass at No. 17.
Phoenix also went through a coaching change after an underwhelming season and early playoffs exit. Mike Budenholzer is now in to replace Frank Vogel, and the Suns could look for some point guard help to work with their Big 3 of Kevin Durant, Bradley Beal and Devin Booker.
Dallas Mavericks – +750
Although the Dallas Mavericks haven’t landed a workout with Bronny James, they’re still reportedly a suitor for him ahead of the draft. The Stein Line’s Mark Stein said they could be a team to watch on draft night if he’s available at No. 58 overall, although the Mavs understand he might not be there.
Dallas rattled off an impressive run to the NBA Finals this past year, but came up short against the Boston Celtics. With a core headlined by Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, James could make for an interesting fit with such star power on the roster.
Minnesota Timberwolves – +1100
One of the most exciting young teams in the NBA, FanDuel’s odds put the Minnesota Timberwolves in the conversation to select Bronny James. They’re coming off a run to the Western Conference Finals, but with the No. 27 overall and No. 37 overall picks, could be in position to take a chance.
Minnesota became the story of the league as Anthony Edwards became arguably the face of the association during the playoff run. The Timberwolves have some questions after coming so close to a Finals berth, and their draft could be one to watch Wednesday night.
Toronto Raptors – +1100
The youth movement is on in Toronto. The Raptors made multiple moves at the trade deadline last year as they went younger, and extending Scottie Barnes showed their commitment to their core.
Toronto has two picks in the draft, sitting at No. 19 and No. 31. The franchise has the fifth-best odds to select Bronny James and with those picks, could be in a spot to do so when their turn comes up.
New York Knicks – +3000
Here’s where there’s a significant drop-off in the odds. The New York Knicks sit at +3000 to draft Bronny James, which is interesting since they have three selections.
New York picks at No. 24 and No. 25 in the first round, and has one more pick at No. 38 in the second. Depending on what route the franchise goes, James could still be on the board if the Knicks want to add a point guard to the mix even after swinging a blockbuster trade for Mikal Bridges.
Cleveland Cavaliers – +3000
This would be an interesting story. The Cleveland Cavaliers, of course, selected LeBron James in 2005 and are +3000 to select his son.
The Cavaliers ended their coaching search this week, reportedly landing former Golden State Warriors assistant Kenny Atkinson. Now, Cleveland has to address the future of Donovan Mitchell and go through the draft with just one pick at No. 20.
Utah Jazz – +3000
Another interesting Western Conference team is in Utah. The Jazz have been up-and-down the last two years after trading Mitchell to Cleveland, but have three picks in this year’s draft.
Utah currently holds the No. 10 pick in addition to the No. 29 selection on Wednesday, but there’s another one waiting at No. 32 overall in the second round. However, the Jazz have both Collin Sexton and Jordan Clarkson on the roster, meaning they probably won’t be in the market for a point guard.
More Bronny James NBA Draft odds
Philadelphia 76ers – +4000
Miami Heat – +4800
Los Angeles Clippers – +4800
Milwaukee Bucks – +4800
Oklahoma City Thunder – +4800
Golden State Warriors – +4800
Chicago Bulls – +4800+
The 2024 NBA Draft will start June 26 as the league moves to a two-day setup. Round 1 will take place on June 26 from Barclays Center and Round 2 will follow on June 27 from ESPN’s seaport studios in New York.
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