There have been conversations about Bronny James’ effectiveness on the LA Lakers, and coach JJ Redick discussed his progress on Tuesday. Some fans thought his remarks contained a subtle shot.
James, drafted in the second round in 2024, has received modest playing time in his first two seasons, averaging 2.7 points per game in 69 games. He has gotten consistent minutes in the preseason but has failed to produce anything noteworthy. In the Lakers’ 101-89 loss to the Golden State Warriors on Tuesday, he played 11 minutes without scoring. He is averaging 2.8 ppg, shooting 26.7%, in 17.8 minutes per game in the preseason.
While addressing his four-game stretch after the game, Redick said:
“I don’t think he’s played well in the four preseason games, but he’s had good practices. … Some of it is, like, the group he’s with; I think that is not necessarily setting him up for success.”
However, one fan suggested Redick indirectly took a dig at James:
“Nice way of saying that he’s trash.”
Austin Reaves was stellar, scoring 28 points on 10-for-18 shooting while adding four rebounds and seven assists in 25 minutes. Walker Kessler also joined the squad for the first time, scoring 11 points and grabbing nine rebounds in 16 minutes.
The Lakers center believes the team shared the ball well
Walker Kessler looked good in his preseason debut for the Lakers on Tuesday. He is expected to make a big impact in the Lakers’ frontcourt, which has drastically underperformed in the last few seasons. Although the Lakers lost, Kessler believed the team looked good:
“It was a lot of fun being out there again. You know, it’s been so long. … We shared the ball really well tonight.”
The Lakers had a chance at the title last season. With LeBron James out of the picture, Kessler has some big shoes to fill while the team looks for another title-contending season.
JJ Redick Remains Uncertain About Lakers Starting Lineup With Multiple Candidates “Banged Up”
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in the NBA, college football, men’s college basketball, women’s college basketball, and college baseball!