Bronny James draft rumors ahead of 2024 NBA Draft first round

The 2024 NBA Draft begins on Wednesday night, and the No. 1 overall pick is not the most highly anticipated selection of the draft.

Instead, all eyes are on LeBron "Bronny" James Jr., who initially declared for the draft in early April and announced he'd forgo his remaining college eligibility in May after playing one year at Southern California.

As the draft approaches, many fans and analysts have wondered if the 19-year-old guard would be an additional enticement for a team hoping to land LeBron James (Sr.) in his pending free agency. The 39-year-old NBA superstar had previously suggested he would enjoy an opportunity to play with his son before he retires.

Here's the latest on where Bronny James may be drafted heading into night one of the 2024 NBA Draft.

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2024 NBA Draft rumors: Where will Bronny James be drafted?

The Ringer: Los Angeles Lakers, No. 55 overall

Kevin O'Connor writes: "In all likelihood, Bronny is so unready for the NBA that he’ll just end up with Los Angeles. So that’s where he lands in my final mock."

Yahoo Sports: Los Angeles Lakers, No. 55 overall

Krysten Peek writes: "James is far from a finished product, but proved he belonged in this draft class as a prospect at the draft combine, where he shot the ball well and showed more scoring potential in the lane with his floater."

ESPN: Los Angeles Lakers, No. 55 overall

ESPN is of a similar mind as other publications. They see Bronny James as a second-round prospect who will get the call on night two on Thursday and join the Los Angeles Lakers.

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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Where will Bronny James be drafted? Latest rumors