Bronny James’ play has been called out by Los Angeles Lakers coach J.J. Redick.
Speaking to reporters, Redick spoke plainly about James’ progress so far in the pre-season.
“I thought he had a really nice September and a good summer with us,” Redick told reporters in his postgame press conference. “I don’t think he’s played well in the four preseason games, but he’s had good practices. Some of it’s just rhythm. Some of it’s who he’s playing with. He’s played a lot of minutes, especially in the second half of games, with our two-way guys.”
James made appearances in all four of the Lakers’ initial preseason matchups, posting averages of 2.8 points on 26.7% shooting, 3.3 assists, and 0.5 steals across 17.5 minutes per game.
While preseason action serves primarily as a warm-up conditioning period—and four games is a tiny sample size—seeing James hit under 30% of his shots is hardly a reassuring start.
LIFE AFTER LEBRON JAMES
Heading into the 2026–27 season, the new-look Los Angeles Lakers enter a new era defined by a complete franchise pivot centered around superstar Luka Dončić. Following a complete franchise pivot centered around superstar Luka Dončić and the departure of LeBron James, front-office chief Rob Pelinka reshaped the roster to prioritize youth, length, and complementary. The moves were made to accentuate Dončić’s playmaking style. Key additions include anchor Walker Kessler, defensive guard Matisse Thybulle, swingman Quentin Grimes, forward Sandro Mamukelashvili, and veteran big man Kevon Looney. These new players give head coach Redick a much more versatile and balanced rotation.
Alongside returning guard Austin Reaves and spark-plug scorer Collin Sexton, the Lakers aim to surround Dončić with dependable rim protection, reliable perimeter defense, and floor spacing.
Though external consensus frames the summer overhaul as a long-term rebuild, local expectations remain high. The priority is establishing a competitive West playoff identity with Dončić immediately while preserving future financial and roster flexibility.
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