JJ Redick gets real about Bronny James’ struggles in preseason for Lakers image
Preseason doesn't mean much for most NBA players, but Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James still has a bit to prove.
With the Lakers having to move on from a player in the next couple of days before the regular season starts, and while James isn't expected to be a candidate for a potential cut, anything is possible.
Across four preseason games, it would be dishonest to suggest he's played well, as he averages 2.8 points per game, 3.3 assists, 2.8 rebounds, and three turnovers. Committing nearly as many turnovers as assists, and more turnovers than points per game, is certainly a problem.
When we also factor in that James is shooting just 26.7% from the field and 14.3% from 3-point range, it's obvious that things haven't gone as planned.
Speaking to reporters about how James has looked throughout the first couple of preseason games, Lakers head coach JJ Redick had plenty to say and was honest about his performances.
“I don’t think he’s played well in the four preseason games, but he’s had good practices,” Redick said, H/T PFSN. “Again, some of it’s just rhythm, some of it’s who he’s playing with, right? He’s played a lot of minutes, especially in the second half of games with our two-way guys. Tonight he played with Rafael (Castro) who’s been with us for three days.”
“The group he’s with, I think, is not necessarily setting him up for success,” the coach added. “But again, the Chris (Manon) thing, we wanted to get that look. Like I said, one of those three guys (two-way players) are going to get opportunities to play,” he added.
James hasn't been much of an offensive threat for much of his young career, but guys in their third year in the NBA can typically get their game off in preseason contests.
James not doing that is a concerning sign, though it still seems unlikely he'll be the one cut in the next couple of days.
More NBA news: