When the Los Angeles Lakers selected Bronny James with the 55th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, it marked a historic moment for the James family. Sharing the court with his father, LeBron James, on opening night was a dream fulfilled for Bronny, especially after they created history together soon after. However, James Jr. has struggled to find form, prompting Stephen A. Smith to point out a major flaw in his path.
During a recent episode of the Club Random Podcast with Bill Maher, ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith joined in to offer his perspective on Bronny James’ journey and the ensuing criticism he has faced. He revealed a specific moment where the 20-year-old James made a major mistake, which has been the cause of criticism he has faced.
LeBron James has done so much for this league, him wanting the moment of being in an NBA game with his son is not the crime. Here’s what the crime was, Bill. You have that moment on opening night. At that moment, Bronny James, you know you belong in the G League—go to the G League. ‘Now that I got this moment, it’s time for me to go and earn my stripes’.
Stephen A. Smith told Bill Maher
ts: 1:50
Smith emphasized that while LeBron James’ dream of sharing the court with his son was sentimental, Bronny James should have seized the opportunity to prove himself by stepping back into the G League to develop further.
All Bronny James had to do…was say, ‘now it’s time for me to go to the G League’. Because he was soaking it all in…and you’re taking up one of those roster spots. Now it brings into question the meritocracy.
Stephen A. Smith continued
Bronny James’ journey hasn’t been smooth. Since his debut, he has struggled for consistent minutes with the Lakers and has yet to make a significant impact with the South Bay Lakers, the team’s G League affiliate. While the pressure of carrying the James name looms large, the 20-year-old remains a work in progress.
Bronny James injury update
Adding to Bronny James’ challenges is a recent left heel contusion that has sidelined him. The injury was first noted after a G League game on Nov. 17, where he played 26 minutes in a loss to the Stockton Kings. Since then, he has missed multiple games, including the Lakers’ recent NBA Cup match against the Thunder.
Team doctors examined Bronny on Friday and determined the injury is healing, according to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin. The Lakers announced that he will begin a ramp-up process and be re-evaluated in a week. However, his status for upcoming games, including a Dec. 1 road matchup against the Jazz, remains uncertain.
Bronny James’ left heel contusion was examined by team doctors Friday, per the Lakers. It was determined to be healing so Bronny will begin his ramp-up process and be re-evaluated in a week.
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) November 30, 2024
Bronny James’ injury complicates his already limited contributions to the team. The Lakers have reportedly planned for him to play primarily in South Bay Lakers’ home games while traveling with the NBA team. However, this has been the cause of much criticism for the team’s management and for LeBron James’ eldest son.
As Bronny James recovers and looks to return to the court, the focus will remain on his growth and how he can carve out his identity in the league – beyond the shadow of his father’s legacy.
