Redick Reflects on Bronny James’ Tough Night in Philadelphia
PHILADELPHIA — The Los Angeles Lakers’ recent game against the Philadelphia 76ers was a night to remember, but perhaps not for the reasons rookie Bronny James would have hoped. Lakers coach JJ Redick found himself second-guessing his decision to bring the young guard into the rotation during the Lakers’ 118-104 loss on Tuesday.
Redick candidly admitted, “Maybe put him in a tough spot,” after James went 0-for-5 with three turnovers in 15 minutes. “Flying up yesterday, nationally televised game in Philly and all that stuff. He didn’t play well, but he’s been playing great in the stay-ready games, and he’s been playing great in the G [League].”
James, who was on assignment with the South Bay Lakers, L.A.’s G League affiliate, was recalled by the Lakers on Monday to join them in the midst of their five-game road trip. The Lakers’ No. 55 pick in the second round in June, Bronny is the eldest son of star LeBron James. He had not played meaningful minutes for L.A. since opening night when the James family made history as the first father-son duo to play in an NBA game together.
With backup Gabe Vincent (left knee) sidelined for the past two games, Redick decided to give Bronny a shot in the first quarter against Philadelphia with L.A. up 17-9. “Just felt like on a back-to-back, just him giving us energy, I think, was the goal,” Redick explained. “I have confidence in him, but obviously didn’t provide that at a high level.”
The 6-foot-2 guard faced immediate challenges, with the Sixers’ Tyrese Maxey (43 points) targeting him defensively. Maxey’s aggressive play led to a turnover on a bad pass to Anthony Davis, resulting in a transition dunk for Guerschon Yabusele.
Bronny acknowledged Maxey’s prowess, saying, “He’s a fast guard. Amazing touch. Can shoot it. I was trying to stand my ground. Just trying to play as hard as I can and bring as much energy as I can. That’s all.”
The call-up to the Lakers came as a surprise to Bronny, just days after he scored a season-high 31 points in the G League. “It just came out of nowhere, so I was always trying to stay ready to play and always keeping my mind right,” he said.
Despite the rough outing, Bronny noted his growth since opening night when he played alongside his father against the Minnesota Timberwolves. “I feel like I’m a whole lot more prepared now,” he reflected. “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.”
LeBron James expressed confidence in his son’s development, stating, “Obviously, it’s his first extensive minutes with us. 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.”
- Bronny James’ first extensive minutes with the Lakers
- JJ Redick’s reflections on the decision
- LeBron James’ confidence in his son’s growth
As the Lakers continue their road trip, all eyes will be on Bronny James to see how he bounces back from this challenging experience. With the support of his father and coach, there’s no doubt that the young guard will have more opportunities to prove himself on the big stage.
Originally Written by: Dave McMenamin
