"Weirdo energy": Ex-Laker Matt Barnes criticizes scouting report likening Bronny James to 'poor man's Davion Mitchell'

Heading into the 2024 NBA draft, Bronny James has been one of the most talked about prospects. As the anticipation continues, one former player came to the defense of the young guard.

During a recent episode of "NBA Today," insider Marc J. Spears opened up on conversations he had with scouts about Bronny. The comments were rather lackluster, referring to him as a "poor man's Davion Mitchell."

In a now-deleted Instagram post by Spears, former LA Lakers forward Matt Barnes spoke up for Bronny James. He wasn't mad at Spears for his reporting but didn't appreciate the people who were likely rooting for the second-generation player to fail.

"But people don’t have to read into this negativity. That’s 2 out of 30 teams," Barnes commented. "It only takes one team to like you!! And I highly doubt the Lakers are gonna pass him up."

"Rooting against an 18yr old is weirdo energy."

Marc J. Spears' now-deleted Instagram post

Based on recent rumblings, Bronny caught the eye of some teams with his play during the combine. Reports surfaced earlier this week that the Utah Jazz might consider drafting him with the No. 32 pick.

NBA draft expert speaks on Bronny James' rising stock

While Marc J. Spears didn't have many positive things to report about Bronny James, the overall narrative around him has been much different. One draft expert said the son of LeBron James has upped his stock in a major way.

With the draft combine wrapping up, ESPN's Jonathan Givony made an appearance on TV to discuss prospects who have helped or hurt their standing with teams. Among those to shine in Chicago was Bronny James. He feels the son of the LA Lakers star has proven he is a legit NBA prospect.

"This was a positive week in Chicago for Bronny James," Givony said. "Talking to NBA people out here, they feel he has legitimized himself as a real NBA prospect. He's not just some kind of side show."

Givony also mentioned that Bronny is now projected to be a second-round pick in June's draft. This is a big step forward for him, as early projections had him not being selected at all.

Bronny is coming off a freshman season that was an uphill battle following his medical scare. He ended up playing just 25 games and averaging 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds and 2.1 assists.

Before the combine, many expected Bronny to be drafted just because of his ties to LeBron. That said, Givony's recent comments show he could get selected for his talent and potential as well. With a little over a month until the draft, only time will tell what happens in regards to Bronny's future in the league.