By Mathieu S. | NBA editor
The Lakers will be very present this Friday against the Wolves, Bronny James alternates the good and the bad. But not surprisingly, his coach prefers to remain positive and announce the color to the reporters. The young player has been warned.
Lose or not, the important thing is another place for the Lakers against Minnesota this Friday night. JJ Redick wants to see some players in action, including Max Christie and rookie Dalton Knecht. Both have shown good things and will no doubt have a good spot in the rotation this season NBA. Bronny James? Let’s just say we are still in the unknown.
Was Bronny James convincing in his first game?
Valuable defensively with 3 blocks, but clumsy offensively with 1/6 shooting, the former USC standout proved he has improvement to make if he wants to play the entire regular season. But Redick is quite happy with his performance, especially after a good training camp with Angelina. This is what he explained to reporters in a press conference.
JJ Redick at the Bronny James show : “With the coaching staff before the game, we prepared the rotation and we discussed Bronny’s case. He had some excellent days with us in August and September. He had 3 good days this week. We are very happy with his progress. »
That doesn’t mean he’s necessarily in the rotation, but Redick and his staff have been pleased with Bronny’s contributions so far.
His offensive game clearly needs some tweaking, but Redick chose to hold back his defense. Bronny made a good impression with his movements and his sense of timing for attacks, although he could do better.
Redick : “He can do things defensively that’s amazing for someone his size, and I think he’s going to be a very good defender. Furiously, he still had to figure out who he was. It’s our job in the player development program to help him. »
It is clear that it will take time for James, but the fact is that for now the California franchise is happy with the player. He will need to spend time in the G-League this season to develop, but he could make NBA appearances from time to time. Redick is sure to be happy to have him on the team.
Redick : “Honestly, he is very easy to coach. He has a beautiful soul, he has good energy. I really like hanging out with him. I support him. He’s a great player and I’m happy to have him in our program. »
Everything suggests that Bronny James will have minutes in this pre-season, the chance to find the offensive target and confirm his defensive effect. But we must also be patient with him for the future.