After showcasing his talents at several Summer League games, fans and critics alike are scrutinizing the Los Angeles Lakers’ decision to draft Bronny James. For one anonymous NBA executive, though, there is no team he fits better than the Purple and Gold.
James, the 55th pick in the 2024 Draft, made his highly anticipated NBA 2K25 Summer League debut in Las Vegas. He finished the game with eight points as Los Angeles suffered a 99-80 loss to the Houston Rockets.
While the shooting percentages were not ideal, James’ willingness to take more shots compared to his previous two summer league games showed signs of progress. Lakers head coach JJ Redick emphasized the importance of James focusing on the process of development rather than outcomes.
Although he struggled from the field, going 3-for-14 with 0-for-8 from 3-point range, James showcased his defensive impact and continued development. Bronny will look to build on this performance as he aims to carve out a role with the Lakers in the upcoming season. He is also projected to become the first father-son duo to play for the same NBA team with superstar LeBron James at some point next season.
Anonymous NBA Executive Explain Why Bronny James Fits With the Los Angeles Lakers
James’ Summer League performance has drawn a host of negative reactions from fans and critics alike. In an article by Steve Bulpett for Heavy, one anonymous NBA executive justified Bronny’s selection by saying the Los Angeles Lakers are the right team for him.
“Bronny’s the kind of guy you’d be interested to see develop. The fact we don’t have a lot to go on is a bit of an issue, but that never seems to bother teams when they’re taking young kids who hardly ever played in Europe. The draft is a risk just about anywhere you’re picking, and that’s even more in the second round.
“But we know Bronny is probably ahead of a lot of young guys in the way he understands the game, but it’s all going to be in the development. It could turn out that a bunch of teams that passed on him in the second round will have missed out, but the truth is he’s probably in the best place for him. The Lakers will protect him and give him room. But he’s going to be under a microscope, and that’s tough. “You see all the people lining up to see him play here in an early game.”
The Lakers recently signed Bronny to a four-year, $7.9 million deal as a second-round draft pick. This contract represents a significant opportunity for the younger James to join the NBA and continue his basketball journey alongside his renowned father.
Even though James hasn’t lived up to expectations yet, there are still a couple of months left before the new NBA season starts. By then, it’ll be known whether LeBron’s son can handle all the pressure of being a pro or not.
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