Los Angeles Lakers rookie Bronny James is set to join the team on their upcoming trip from Monday to November 6, after which he will alternate between the active roster and the South Bay G League affiliate. However, Lakers coach JJ Redick indicated that these plans might shift over time.
The Lakers recently marked a historic moment by becoming the first father-son duo in NBA history when LeBron James and Bronny played together in the season opener against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Although Bronny was dressed for the game against the Phoenix Suns, he did not get to play in the Lakers’ 123-116 victory.
The Lakers will host the Sacramento Kings on Saturday, followed by games against the Phoenix Suns, Cleveland Cavaliers, Toronto Raptors, Detroit Pistons, and Memphis Grizzlies.
“Our plans are always fluid based on real time,” Redick said on Friday. “I believe we have two guys dressing today that as of yesterday weren’t dressing out. The plan for Bronny to move between the Lakers and South Bay has always been in place since day one. Rob Pelinka and I have discussed this, and LeBron has mentioned it as well.”
LeBron James, who played 11 of his first 21 years in the NBA with the Cleveland Cavaliers, was on the verge of starting his second season when Bronny was born on October 6, 2004, in Akron, Ohio. This adds significance to the James family’s upcoming return to Cleveland next Wednesday.
The G League draft is scheduled for Saturday, with team training camps running until November 7. The South Bay Lakers will kick off their G League season on November 9 against the Salt Lake City Stars.
Bronny and his agent, Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul, discussed development strategies with several NBA teams during the predraft process. Sources indicated that the option to play in the G League was favorably received, and Paul pushed for a standard contract rather than a two-way deal. Bronny was selected by the Lakers in the second round as the 55th overall pick, and both he and his representation showed readiness for the development process.
LeBron spoke positively about the Lakers’ approach to Bronny’s rookie season during media day last month. He emphasized the importance of growth, whether through play with the Lakers or in the G League, and the need for accountability within the team.
Players chosen in the mid to late second round typically spend time in the G League to enhance their skills and gain experience. During the 2023-24 season, 23 out of 28 second-round picks saw G League action.
Pelinka, the Lakers’ vice president of basketball operations, and Redick have discussed fostering strong connections between the Lakers and their South Bay affiliate. Redick, appointed with no prior head-coaching experience, aims to establish a top-tier player development program in L.A., viewing Bronny’s career as a significant opportunity to showcase that vision.
South Bay will also have a new head coach this season, with the Lakers hiring Zach Guthrie last month to replace Dane Johnson.