JJ Redick wants Bronny James to develop well this season, and has instructed two players to set the tone for the young star.
The Los Angeles Lakers are trying to ensure that Bronny James develops into the best version of himself in the years to come.
Despite his initial struggles, Bronny made an impression on the Lakers last season, really growing into his role as a two-way player.
In the summer, Bronny experienced more success at NBA Summer League, delivering a much better performance than he did the previous year.
During the offseason, JJ Redick asked Bronny to study two-way players like Davion Mitchell and TJ McConnell. And on the Lakers, the head coach has asked two stars to mentor Bronny.
Photo by Meg Oliphant/Getty ImagesJJ Redick told Gabe Vincent and Marcus Smart to set example for Bronny James
JJ Redick spoke to reporters after a recent LA Lakers practice session, where he was asked about the players who are role models for Bronny James.
Redick immediately confirmed Marcus Smart and named Gabe Vincent as the two players he spoke to and tasked with the responsibility of setting an example for Bronny James.
“Huge. Gabe as well. I mean, those two guys are studs, and even when they were limited participants, they were leading.
“Those guys know that’s part of their role, something we’ve already talked about just in terms of their leadership, and they’ve both been great.” (H/T Lakers Nation)
Bronny James set for another two-way season in the G-League
As much as Bronny James has improved over the last year, he is not ready to be a set part of the LA Lakers’ rotation going forward.
Redick and the coaching staff are likely going to give him more minutes than he got last season, but he will still primarily be playing in the G-League.
The G-League allowed Bronny to get consistent game time and improve his game last season, and the hope is that he can do the same this year as well.
Hopefully, James can take a significant leap this year and get to a point where he figures regularly in the LA Lakers’ rotation for years to come.