The 2024 NBA Draft wrapped up its second round on Thursday, bringing a blend of excitement and unexpected developments. Among the numerous picks and trades, the selections and movements orchestrated by the Los Angeles Lakers and the New York Knicks stood out.
Bronny James Joins the Lakers
The Los Angeles Lakers made headlines by picking Bronny James with the 55th overall pick. The young guard, measuring 6-foot-1, averaged 4.8 points over 25 college games last season and is notably the son of NBA superstar LeBron James. Bronny James made a remarkable comeback to the court after surviving a sudden cardiac arrest.
An anonymous source commented on the decision, stating, "Let's be honest about this: Bronny would not have been taken by the Lakers, or probably any other team, if he wasn't LeBron's son." This sentiment underscores the skepticism surrounding the pick, despite reports suggesting that Anthony Davis was impressed with Bronny’s workout. Added to the mix, Rich Paul, CEO of Klutch Sports Group, said, "Bronny would go to Australia to play if anyone else took him."
Earlier in the draft, the Lakers also selected Dalton Knecht at No. 17. Knecht's pedigree is well-recognized, having been named SEC Player of the Year, which adds a strategic depth to the Lakers' roster.
New York Knicks' Intricate Moves
The New York Knicks were equally active, initiating a series of trades and picks that redefined their lineup. Notably, the Knicks traded Mikal Bridges to the Knicks—a seeming typographical error that remains unexplained—and quickly followed up by re-signing OG Anunoby the next day. The Knicks, focusing on both present utility and future assets, traded one of their first-round picks to the Oklahoma City Thunder in exchange for five second-round picks.
In the draft, the Knicks secured Pacome Dadiet with the No. 25 pick and acquired Tyler Kolek with the 34th pick following a trade with the Portland Trail Blazers. These maneuvers reflect the Knicks' strategy to build a versatile and promising roster that balances current expectations with future potential.
Top Picks and Major Trades
The Atlanta Hawks clinched the No. 1 overall pick and selected Zaccharie Risacher, a player projected to earn around $57 million over his first four seasons—an auspicious start for the young talent. Meanwhile, Alex Sarr was picked at No. 2, promising stiff competition in the upcoming season. Other notable selections included Tidjane Salaun by the Charlotte Hornets at No. 6, Zach Edey by the Memphis Grizzlies at No. 9, and Donovan Clingan by the Portland Trail Blazers.
The San Antonio Spurs added intrigue by picking Stephon Castle with the No. 4 pick. Jay Bilas highlighted the Spurs' enthusiasm for Castle, drawing a parallel with Jrue Holiday and indicating high hopes for his defensive capabilities: "The comparison of Castle to Jrue Holiday by Jay Bilas indicates the Spurs' high hopes for his defensive capabilities." Subsequently, the Spurs traded the rights to their No. 8 pick, Rob Dillingham, to the Timberwolves, garnering an unprotected 2031 first-round pick and a protected 2030 first-round swap.
The Spurs' calculated strategy is evident, as they now hold at least one first-round pick from another team in every draft until 2031, with the exception of 2029. This shrewd accumulation of picks positions the Spurs favorably for long-term success, allowing them to remain competitive both in the short and long term.
As the new talent integrates into the teams, the NBA landscape is poised for significant changes. With high expectations placed on rookies like Zaccharie Risacher and seasoned players like OG Anunoby reinforcing their teams, the 2024-2025 NBA season promises an exciting blend of predictability and surprises.