As teams do their due diligence for the 2024 NBA Draft, the Utah Jazz “have expressed interest in bringing Bronny (James) in for an individual workout and could be interested in him with the 32nd pick,” per Yahoo Sports’ Krysten Peek.
James, who has until May 29 to withdraw from the draft, was one of the standouts at the NBA Draft Combine. With his explosive vertical leap, strong showing in shooting drills, and principled play in scrimmages, there’s renewed confidence in his NBA future. He’s still likely to play heavy minutes in the G League after a subpar freshman season at USC. However, there’s a chance he turns into a reliable player due to his feel, basketball IQ, on-ball defense, and offensive upside.
If drafted by the Jazz, who are in the midst of a rebuild, James could really get minutes though. The experience will be invaluable even in small doses as he looks to “make a name for (himself).”
Jazz Emerge as Bronny James Contender
Presumably bringing in James with an eye towards luring his father to Salt Lake City, Utah’s plan to go “big game hunting” this offseason could start with LeBron. To that end, the Jazz are projected to have up to $38.3 million available in free agency. If Jordan Clarkson’s days in Utah are truly numbered, they could have over $50 million available in cap space by moving him in cap friendly deal.
That could be enough to lure LeBron away from the Los Angeles Lakers.
However, whether that’s enough for the Jazz to morph into a championship contender is another matter. Utah will be signing Lauri Markkanen to a contract extension sooner rather than later. Indeed, he’s all but guaranteed to be a franchise pillar for the foreseeable future. Named an All-Star for the first time in 2022-23, he’s put up 24.5 points per game since being traded to the Jazz. With that said, Markkanen may be as good a second option as any.
From there, things get dicey.
Who’s the Third Option?
In 2023-24, Collin Sexton averaged 18.7 points per game, the second-highest mark on the team. As a starter, he averaged 21.1 points per game. However, Utah appears determined to feature Keyonte George, the 16th overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft. Flashing star potential throughout the season, George averaged 15.6 points and 4.7 assists per game after the All-Star Break.
The Jazz might not have to choose between Sexton and George if they can get them on the same page. However, with no clear pecking order, Utah’s top players often feel like they’re stepping on each other’s toes.
That won’t be the case with James’ arrival. He’ll be the undisputed top option due to his stature and ability. Furthermore, famously unselfish, he’ll make the right decision with the ball in his hands.
