Pros and cons of Lakers selecting Bronny James in the 2024 NBA Draft

Pro: The early signs of a solid outside shot

One of the most disheartening aspects of Bronny James' freshman season with the USC Trojans was his struggle to establish a consistent jumper. He shot just 36.6 percent from the field, 26.7 percent from three-point range, and 67.6 percent at the free-throw line.

It's hard to get a rhythm going when you miss as much time as James did in the aftermath of his health scare, however, and the NBA Draft Combine showed what may still be there to uncover.

James performed well at the Combine, shooting 64.0 percent on spot-up shots, which ranked in the top 25 of the 72 players who participated. He stunned those in attendance by knocking down 76.0 percent of his shots on the move—the second-best mark of the day.

Perhaps the 2024 NBA Draft Combine was a better reflection of the type of shooter that James could ultimately become at the next level.

It's worth noting that James' jump shot was a selling point coming out of high school. Adam Finkelstein, the Director of Scouting at 247Sports, wrote: "The best part of his individual offense is his ability to shoot the ball from long-range. He has good mechanics and consistently knocks down open rhythm threes."

If the NBA Draft Combine is a sign of that ringing true, rather than an aberration, then perhaps James could be developed into a legitimate 3-and-D specialist for the Lakers.