Bronny James is expected to spend some time with the Lakers' G League affiliate this season.
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LeBron Gave His Blessing to Send Bronny to South Bay
On Friday, ESPN reported that James is expected to travel on the team's upcoming 5-game trip until Nov. 6. Upon returning the rookie will begin shuffling between the active roster and the franchise's South Bay Lakers.
Head coach JJ Redick claims that the decision on Bronny "has always been the plan since day one," adding that he had spoken with GM Rob Pelinka and LeBron James about it in the past.
LeBron even hinted at the plan during the Lakers' media day last month.
"Seeing him continue to grow as a basketball player, no matter if it's here with us or if it's down with the G League team, and him continuing to get better and better," he said. "We want to hold him accountable. He's going to hold us accountable, and if we all do that, we'll all get better, because we're all one team. We are a reflection of the South Bay. The South Bay is a reflection of us. ... We'll continue to grow, stacking days. I know he's going to do that, because that's just what he's about."
The Move is Apart of A Bigger Picture
Bronny's journey to the NBA has been marked with significant pressure and so far his debut has been underwhelming. A transition to the G-League would assist in his development to become an NBA superstar.
The move may also help the Lakers' organization in their journey to establish an in-house developmental program. Coach JJ Redick said so back in July and detailed how Bronny's natural ability made him the perfect "case study one."
The G League draft is Saturday, and team training camps run through Nov. 7. The South Bay Lakers begin their G League season Nov. 9 against the Salt Lake City Stars.
