Criticism Arises Over Lakers’ Handling of Bronny James’ Development

The Los Angeles Lakers organization has come under scrutiny for its developmental strategy concerning Bronny James, the eldest son of NBA star LeBron James. Recent criticism emerged from basketball analyst Charles Barkley, who referred to the Lakers’ approach as «awful» in a discussion on «The Bettor Angle.»

Charles Barkley voiced his disapproval of the Lakers’ decision to have Bronny alternate between playing home games for the NBA G-League affiliate, South Bay Lakers, and being called up to the NBA primarily for road trips. «The kid is not ready to play in the NBA. He should be in the G-League so he can play basketball,» Barkley stated. He further commented on the incongruity of only allowing Bronny to play home games, describing it as «stupid» and «not fair to him» or the team.

Barkley expressed concern over the impact of such a fragmented schedule on both the coaches and Bronny’s development, implying that the arrangement may lead to pressure on the coaching staff to include an underprepared player into the main roster rotations. «I don’t think they are doing Bronny any favors. They have just handled this thing very bad. It’s a bad look for the Lakers,» added Barkley.

Bronny James, since his debut with the Lakers, has played in six NBA games, averaging 0.7 points per game in 2.3 minutes per game. In contrast, with the South Bay Lakers in the G-League, he has averaged 5.0 points and 3.0 assists in considerably more playtime of 28.5 minutes over two games.

The handling of Bronny’s development has raised questions regarding nepotism, particularly after his selection by the Lakers following just one college season at the University of Southern California (USC). These concerns have magnified as the Lakers’ strategy for Bronny has been publicized.

In related developments, LeBron James has recently announced his temporary departure from social media platforms, a decision speculated by analysts Greg Anthony and Stephen A. Smith to be linked to the ongoing discussions about his son. Anthony noted the difficulties Bronny might face in managing the media attention and expectations that accompany his unique situation.