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Los Angeles Lakers to Get Rid of Bronny James?
IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Los Angeles Lakers to Get Rid of Bronny James?

When the Los Angeles Lakers drafted Bronny James with the 55th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, many were immediately skeptical about his pro career. Was he drafted because of his father, LeBron James? That’s where everybody was leaning back then – even today.

Truth be told, prior to the NBA, his lone year at USC wasn’t spectacular. In one season playing NCAA basketball, he averaged just 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game. Clearly, Bronny could’ve benefitted more had he stayed in college instead of going the one-and-done route.

Now, as he enters his third year in the league, his first without his famous father being his teammate, all eyes are on Bronny James. However, if the preseason games are a good indicator of how he’ll fare next season, it was unsatisfactory.

JJ Redick Laments Lack Of Improvement From Bronny James’ Side

Starters don’t normally play high minutes during the preseason. The games are supposed to highlight the ‘other’ guys. It’s for the ones who are still battling for a roster spot or two-way contracts.

But Bronny James already has a guaranteed deal, so he’s not particularly in danger of getting waived. Or is he? Speaking to the media, Lakers head coach JJ Redick was blunt about his assessment of his incoming third-year guard.

‘I don’t think he’s played well in the four preseason games,’ Redick said in a recent post-game conference. ‘I thought he had a really nice September and a good summer with us. I don’t think he’s played well in the four preseason games, but he’s had good practices.’

If we look at LA’s roster depth, Bronny is third or fourth at the point guard spot. Safe to say that he is projected not to get a ton of minutes next season. Add Redick’s comments to the picture, and James Jr’s DNPs might become a common occurrence.

If the Lakers waive him, would he get a guaranteed deal with another team? That’s a hard question to answer because of Bronny’s lack of improvement.

This article first appeared on TWSN and was syndicated with permission.

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