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[Saba Sports News] It was never likely that Bronny James would end up with any team besides the Los Angeles Lakers, but one Western Conference rival gave it serious thought.
In a report published by ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne, the Golden State Warriors considered selecting Bronny with the 52nd overall pick in this year’s NBA Draft.
The Lakers held the 55th pick, and LeBron James had yet to renew his contract. Some within the Warriors organization toyed with the idea of drafting Bronny and potentially using it as leverage to sign LeBron as a free agent.
Shelburne noted that the Warriors ultimately decided not to draft Bronny out of respect for LeBron’s desire to play alongside his son on the Lakers.
Additionally, there were concerns about whether LeBron would even consider signing with a team other than the Lakers if they selected Bronny, which likely influenced Golden State’s decision.
The Warriors reportedly explored trading for LeBron last season, so it’s plausible that they entertained the idea of adding both LeBron and Bronny to their roster. LeBron’s agent, Rich Paul, had a clear reason for informing Golden State that a trade wasn’t on the table.
Even with Klay Thompson’s future uncertain, the Warriors remain focused on contending for another title as long as they have Stephen Curry and Draymond Green, though they’ll have to do it without LeBron or Bronny.