Bronny James being selected number 55 in the 2024 NBA Draft by the Los Angeles Lakers was something many expected. It was clear that he was destined to play for the Lakers alongside his father, LeBron James.
After the draft, James was immediately attacked by fans and even analysts. He was treated as if Los Angeles had drafted him with their first-round pick.
After a rocky start to the NBA Summer League, these attacks increased even more.
Media and fan opinions about the younger James have spiraled out of control. He was never going to be a supporting player right away. In fact, the Lakers have completely different plans for him.
According to a report by Jovan Buha from The athleteLos Angeles plans to use James primarily in the G-League this season.
“And although Bronny James had an impressive finish to the summer league, at least by his modest expectations, the Lakers plan to use him primarily in the G League as he is still far from being a rotation player.”
Gone are the days when James had an easy life and the press celebrated him instead of criticizing him.
Not long ago, he was one of the most successful players in the NIL market. He was a player that fans cheered for and wanted to see succeed.
Speaking of NIL success: On 3 His NIL valuation was $3.2 million. He was one of the highest-paid college athletes in the country.
James played in 25 games for the USC Trojans, starting six of them. He averaged 4.8 points per game, 2.8 rebounds and 2.1 assists. He shot 36.6 percent from the field and 26.7 percent from the three-point line.
He clearly wasn’t the type of player who would come to the NBA and magically become a supporting player.
Having him play in the G-League is the right move for the Lakers. He will get valuable playing time and work with an NBA-level coaching staff. In a few years, he could be ready to make the jump to the NBA.
That being said, it’s time to stop pretending like James was ever drafted to play a big role right away. He will see some game action to play with his dad, but his development will be everything for him going forward.
