Lakers Announce Key Role for Bronny James Ahead of Playoff Matchup With Timberwolves

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By J.R. DeGroote | Last updated Apr 16, 2025 4:44 PM ET

Bronny James will play a key role as the Los Angeles Lakers prepare for their playoff matchup with the Minnesota Timberwolves.

The Lakers finished as the No. 3 seed in the Western Conference, setting up the matchup with Minnesota. LA will be tasked with slowing down all-star Anthony Edwards, who averaged 27.6 points per game this season, good for fourth in the NBA.

Edwards is a dynamic scorer capable of taking over games, and the Lakers are placing significant emphasis on finding ways to contain him. Head coach JJ Redick said Wednesday that Bronny James and Shake Milton will take on the role of Edwards during scout team sessions to help prepare.

Interestingly, the Timberwolves have been using 37-year-old Joe Ingles to play the role of Doncic on their scout team, per Jovan Buha of The Athletic.

Bronny James has had an interesting first year in the NBA. He's thrived during his G League stints but never quite found his footing playing with the Lakers. He averaged just 2.3 points in 6.7 minutes per game this season.

Bronny recorded his first start in the final game of the season. He logged a whopping 38 minutes but shot just 2-of-10 from the field, registering four points, six assists and three rebounds. James also tacked on four steals.

According to ESPN BET, the Lakers are minus-190 in their series against the Timberwolves, which kicks off on Saturday with Game 1 in LA.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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