Lakers News: Bronny James sends clear message to JJ Redick after spending time in the NBA G League

The Los Angeles Lakers’ four-game winning streak came to an end with a 118-104 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers, but the game marked a milestone for Bronny James, who recorded a career-high 15 minutes of playing time in the NBA. This was a significant step forward for the son of LeBron James, who had previously been averaging just under two minutes per game in limited appearances this season.

Just days prior, Bronny delivered an impressive performance in the G League, scoring a career-high 31 points against Rip City Remix. That standout showing appeared to pave the way for his extended court time against the 76ers. After the game, Bronny shared his thoughts on the opportunity.

“I feel like I’m a whole lot more prepared now,” Bronny said via ESPN. “Again, just coming out and staying ready after the G League stint and the season being down the road a little bit more, just staying ready. And coming in, playing smart”.

While Bronny logged his most significant minutes in the NBA so far, his performance fell short of expectations. He failed to score, going 0-5 from the field and 0-3 from beyond the arc, but managed to contribute three rebounds, one assist, and one block during his time on the court.

Bronny James #9 of the Los Angeles Lakers drives against Pete Nance #22 of the Philadelphia 76ers during the second half at the Wells Fargo Center. (Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)

It’s evident that Bronny still has work to do to compete consistently at the NBA level, but his G League success indicates he has the potential to grow. For the South Bay Lakers, he has averaged roughly 14 points, 4 rebounds, and 4 assists over seven games, showing flashes of what he could bring to the NBA.

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JJ Redick gets brutally honest on Bronny James logging a career-high in playing time with the Lakers

LeBron James weighs in on Bronny’s milestone

While Bronny is at the start of his NBA journey, his father, LeBron James, is continuing to excel late in his storied career. In the loss to the 76ers, LeBron posted a stellar stat line of 31 points, eight rebounds, and nine assists.

After the game, LeBron reflected on his son’s milestone and what it means for his development. “Obviously, it’s his first extensive minutes with us,” LeBron said via ESPN. “We had that first game where it was just a moment — and that was a great moment. But tonight was his first opportunity to be with the big guys, be with the big club, and he’s going to continue to use that and get better and better”.

JJ Redick talks about Bronny’s performance

Lakers head coach JJ Redick explained his decision to insert Bronny into the game in the first quarter, a move that surprised many. “I just felt like on a back-to-back, just him giving us energy, I think, was the goal,” Redick said.

Redick also provided an honest assessment of Bronny’s performance but expressed optimism about his future. “He didn’t play well, but he’s been playing great, you know, in the stay-ready games, and he’s been playing great in the G,” Redick explained. “So, I have confidence in him, but obviously, he didn’t provide that at a high level”.