Bronny James isn’t progressing the way the Los Angeles Lakers likely hoped he would.
The former No. 55 overall pick was arguably the most scrutinized draft pick in 2024, as many believed he was drafted based on his last name rather than his skill set/upside.
So far, James hasn’t exactly proved his doubters wrong, as he’s failed to convince JJ Redick to include him in his rotation full-time.
On Saturday, Lakers writer Tyler Watts felt inclined to send a stern nine-word message to the USC product after a miserable start to the 2025-26 season.
“Bronny James isn’t an NBA player at this stage,” Watts wrote before explaining why he feels as such.
“The Lakers were still without LeBron, Vincent, and Theiro in Friday’s game in Memphis. Luka Doncic surprisingly returned early from injury and went nuclear again, but coach Redick only played a nine-man rotation.”
“The Los Angeles Lakers can’t play him (James) right now. It is on Bronny to earn Redick’s trust and overtake a role on this team. Gabe Vincent struggled and is injured."
"There are seemingly minutes available, but the young guard isn’t snatching them. Fans want it to happen, but Bronny needs more time to develop. It is not what anyone wants to hear, but the truth hurts sometimes.”
Watts couldn't be any more accurate while discussing James’ shortcomings in Los Angeles.
The 21-year-old hasn’t figured it out from beyond the arc in a league that values perimeter shooting more than it ever has, making him unplayable at this time.
To make matters worse, it’s not like James is a lightning-quick guard like De’Aaron Fox, who can provide the Lakers with high-level scoring around the rim, making it more challenging to justify playing him for an extended period.
James has only recorded zero points, three assists, and three rebounds in the three contests he’s appeared in thus far.
Being a stout on-ball defender will only get a player so far in today’s NBA, which James will soon learn.
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