Heading into the 2024 off-season, the LA Lakers currently hang by a thin thread. After long-standing rumors about JJ Redick’s possibility of donning the coach’s hate, Laker Nation had a twist in the tale. The UConn men’s head coach Dan Hurley emerged as the favorite for the role out of nowhere. While it didn’t seem to bother LeBron James, the latest report accused the superstar of holding Jeanie Buss hostage over his son Bronny James’ draft situation.

In the latest episode of Ben Maller Show, the veteran sports analyst dropped his take on King James’ latest admission. Maller read out a report that stated that the superstar has told several “handpicked reporters” that he hasn’t spoken to the Lakers management about the latest coaching job situation. However, the veteran analyst refused to believe it as he said, “I’m agnostic on this… Admit nothing, deny everything.”

Following that, Maller went on to open up about the “hostage” situation that James has created for his side. He added, “Laker brass are so paranoid that LeBron is going to leave… they are at his mercy cause LeBron’s going to opt out of his contract… It’s like a hostage negotiation you got to hire the coach he wants you gotta draft the kid.”

Earlier, it seemed like LeBron James was hinting at the front office to hire JJ Redick as the HC, through their latest podcast. And the rumors surrounding it almost made it possible, as the reports suggested Redick as the favorite for the role. However, things took a turn when the latest update revealed that the LA side has offered a 9-figure contract to Dan Hurley. Moreover, he is expected to close the deal.

On the other end, James, who seemed to be backing Redick, seemed to have switched his loyalty. James even sent out a post via his X handle, praising the 51-year-old on his coaching.

Will Jeanie Buss escape the hostage situation?

Ben Maller, in his statement, also revealed that the Lakers don’t have an immediate replacement for LeBron James. So, the team has to play a safe game to keep the team on the championship hunt. While the coaching situation seemed to have cleared without any confusion, as James switched loyalty, the team needs to work on Bronny.

Heading into the 2024 Draft, the Lakers have the 17th pick and 55th pick. If the Lakers aim to pick Bronny up in the first round, the team doesn’t seem to have any issues. However, an ESPN report stated that the team was interested in Purdue star Zack Eddey. Analysts expect the 7 ‘4 center to get drafted within 9-19 picks.

If at all the Lakers use the 17th pick to draft Eddey, they will have a lesser chance to draft Bronny in the 55th pick. The Phoenix Suns have already stated their trouble with the lack of backup guards on their side. And, Shams Charania has reported the Suns’ interest in roping Bronny in. And, they have the 22nd pick.

So the Lakers will be walking on a minefield until the Draft day. Will the Lakers draft Bronny? Let us know in the comments.

Stay tuned for more such updates, and to follow in what Shaq’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato had to say about WNBA sensation Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, this video