Ex-WFAN host says Lakers' management lacks backbone to challenge LeBron James' influence on drafting son Bronny 

History was made last night when the Lakers selected Bronny James with the 55th overall pick to pair him alongside his father. LeBron James and his son become the first father-and-son duo to play in the NBA coming with some high expectations for the young guard. However, former WFAN host Craig Carton was critical of the selection and questioned the decision-making process behind it.

He played just one year with the USC Trojans where he showcased his impressive knack for defense coupled with his precision at playmaking. Despite his offensive game needing more time to develop, the upside is evident but will require the right opportunity for him.

In today's episode of "The Carton Show," he argued that the iconic franchise going for Bronny James is a trend in the wrong direction.

"The Lakers are a joke now," Carton said. "I don't hate LeBron James for wanting to get his son into the league. I do feel bad for Bronny James. ... He's not an NBA player and forcing him into the NBA and the fact that Jeanie Buss and Rob Pelinka don't have the stones to look LeBron in his eye and say, 'No, it's not your franchise.'"

Given Carton's comments, there have been some similar reactions about Bronny James getting selected by the Lakers in the draft. However, it remains to be seen how he'll transition from the collegiate level to the professional court with some of the most elite basketball players in the world.

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Lakers executive talked about the upside in LeBron James's son

Bronny James remains an intriguing player heading into the NBA. Interestingly, Lakers executive Rob Pelinka highlighted this when he praised James's playstyle, as per ESPN's Dave McMenamin.

"I think he's going to be a point-of-attack defender that can be really disruptive with the way he guards other teams' point guards," Pelinka said. "I think he can guard multiple positions. And we've really seen growth in shooting. ... We really think he can turn into being an elite shotmaker. Just a 3-and-D player, for sure."

LA Lakers forward LeBron James with son Bronny James (Photo Credit: IMAGN)

He didn't post the most flashy numbers with USC but the potential was more than visible. Certain players truly make their mark as professional basketball players once they reach the big league. Under the right situation, an athlete could potentially prosper that is devoid of any prospect rankings in a draft pool.

Based on Pelinka's comments, it makes sense why Bronny James aligned his game to the likes of Celtics guards Jrue Holiday and Derrick White. A three-and-D specialist can go a long way in the NBA in terms of garnering sustainable success.

With incredible value in hitting shots from beyond the arc at a consistent level, coupled with being a capable defender, James's approach to the game is off to a good start.