Report: Western Conference surprise team almost drafted Bronny James

The Los Angeles Lakers made history during the 2024 NBA Draft when they selected Bronny James with the 55th overall pick and paired him with his father, LeBron James.

Leading up to the event, there were rumors that the USC product could end up with another squad, such as the Dallas Mavericks, Minnesota Timberwolves, Phoenix Suns or Toronto Raptors. However, it always seemed very likely that Bronny would end up with the Lakers.

ESPN's Ramona Shelburne reported Friday morning that there is at least one other notable team in store for the 19-year-old.

“(Lakers head coach JJ Redick) stood next to (vice president of operations Rob Pelinka) as the Golden State Warriors, who tried to trade for James last season, considered whether to take Bronny at No. 52,” wrote Shelburne. “The Warriors liked Bronny's skills and had him on their draft board, sources said. Selecting him ahead of the Lakers, who held the 55th pick, would have been a smart move – perhaps even to entice James to sign as a free transfer.” But ultimately, sources said, the Warriors decided to accept the wishes respect that James had made clear, and the Lakers signaled that they would comply.

LeBron was in the middle of trade rumors last winter before agent Rich Paul made it clear in early February that his most famous client would remain with the organization. Five months later, LeBron agreed to a new two-year, $104 million contract with the Lakers.

The Warriors lost their longtime “Splash Brother” Klay Thompson to the Mavericks in the offseason, but still have franchise icons Stephen Curry and Draymond Green on the roster. Seeing Bronny share the backcourt with Curry and go up against his father would have been a surreal scene, but witnessing the father-son duo will be even more special for Lakers fans in the 2024-25 season.