Bronny James draft odds: Lakers favored with LeBron’s future in question

LeBron James’ tenure in Los Angeles is up in the air, and his son’s future could hold the keys to where the NBA legend lands next. 

The former MVP has repeatedly expressed his desire to play with his son Bronny, who has declared for the draft but maintained his college eligibility.

Bronny isn’t widely considered a top prospect, but it’s been rumored that teams could choose to draft the USC freshman as a means to acquiring, or in the Lakers’ case, keeping LeBron.

Here’s a look at how oddsmakers at DraftKings Sportsbook believe Bronny’s draft fate could play out. 

Perhaps unsurprisingly, the Lakers (+190) are Bronny’s most likely destination. 

After Los Angeles’ playoff elimination at the hands of the Denver Nuggets, The Athletic reported the Lakers were open to drafting Bronny in addition to re-signing LeBron to a three-year extension. 

The Lakers are also a heavy favorite to have LeBron on their roster come the opening night of the 2024-25 NBA season. 

The purple and gold are trailed by several teams expected to be in the mix should LeBron bolt from Southern California. 

The 76ers, Thunder, Knicks, and Cavaliers—all potential suitors for the five-time MVP—are tied for second-best odds to draft Bronny (+1000). 

Bronny is coming off a tough first season at USC. 

He suffered cardiac arrest during a July workout and was diagnosed with a congenital heart defect that kept him out for nearly five months.

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The 19-year-old made his debut in December and averaged only 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game with the Trojans and shot just over 25 percent from three.

Listed at 6-foot-4, most draft evaluators project Bronny as a potential strong defender in the NBA who must improve at the offensive end to make an impact at the professional level.