On a night when not much went right for the short-handed Los Angeles Lakers, Bronny James was the bright spot.
In his most extensive NBA minutes, the oldest son of LeBron James scored 17 points and had five assists in Thursday’s 118-89 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks. James was the Lakers’ best offensive player in a game where they were without their top four scorers because of injuries, with his injured star father watching from the bench. Bronny James’s head coach, JJ Redick, is confident that the 20-year-old can and will contribute professionally because he shot 7 of 10 from the field, indicating the player’s growth and potential. We’ve monitored him in the G [League] and feel like he’s, you know, in those sort of end game situations when he’s gotten a chance to play with us, he’s been really good,” Redick said. “So not surprised by tonight.”
LeBron James (groin) and Rui Hachimura (patella) wore street clothes, so James got to play more because starters Luka Doni and Austin Reaves were both out with sprained right ankles. Important bench options Dorian Finney-Smith (left ankle) and Jarred Vanderbilt (right groin strain) were also out.
Bronny James attempted to fill the void left by the absence of so many scoring players. That included a memorable long outlet pass to Markeith Morris for a layup late in the first half reminiscent of his legendary father.
Bronny James stated, “The biggest thing for me is just being ready at all times.” He added, “Gaining my confidence and gain my comfortability over reps, you know, and getting out there and taking advantage of my opportunity if it’s given.” Since Thursday marked the third time in his rookie season that he has appeared in at least three games in a row, Redick feels more at ease with James as he gets more playing time. James’ 29:53 of game action was the third highest on the team, behind fellow rookie Dalton Knecht and fourth-year guard Jordan Goodwin.
Given Redick’s upbringing, James found himself in a position of familiarity as the primary focal point after the Lakers were thoroughly outmanned in the defeat. Redick recalled his reaction to James’ media sessions at the NBA draft combine before he had been hired as Lakers coach.
“I texted Bron and I was like, ’Man, Bronny has his head on straight,’” Redick said. Like, he comprehends it. And since Day 1, I’ve just been impressed with the person that he is.
“From the moment I started spending time with him on the court this summer, you know, it was obvious to me that he was certain to be an NBA player. And I still believe that. He will play in the NBA.
