Bronny James is still generating an absurd amount of headlines, which was easy to foresee the second the Lakers drafted him last June. The narrative has shifted a million times to help fit whatever narrative the James camp is trying to peddle, but that can’t distract from the fact that he’s a nepotism hire. It’s not Bronny’s fault, but that doesn’t make it any less accurate.
The 20-year-old hasn’t been offensively bad or anything—in fact, he’s been totally adequate. Bronny has a 17-point outing to his name and has flashed an improved stroke from beyond the arc and impressive defensive instincts.
He’s shown some improvement from his underwhelming USC tenure, but is a true two-way role the best for his development? In a recent appearance on The Dan Patrick Show, Charles Barkley gave a blunt assessment of how LA should be handling Bronny.
“I wish him nothing but the best,” Barkley said. “He should be in the G League, getting better as a player, and should’ve been there all year. You don’t get better sitting on the bench.”
Bronny has had some impressive performances in the G League but likely needs a long-term run down there to work on the various holes in his game. It’s one thing to have an occasional bright spot in garbage time, but he’s far from earning a place in any rotation.
Anytime Bronny has played somewhat meaningful NBA minutes, it’s been underwhelming at best. Forcing him into a position he isn’t ready for doesn’t benefit anyone.
