Los Angeles Lakers head coach J.J. Redick has never been one to dance around the truth, and he proved it again when asked about Bronny James' preseason performance. Following the Lakers' 101-89 loss to the Golden State Warriors on Tuesday night, Redick acknowledged that the rookie guard hasn't looked sharp through four exhibition games.
The numbers back that up. James has managed just 11 total points on 4-of-15 shooting from the field, and he's coughed up 12 turnovers during that span. It's been a rough introduction to NBA speed and physicality, and Redick didn't pretend otherwise.
"I thought he had a really nice September and a good summer with us. I don't think he's played well in the four preseason games, but he's had good practices," Redick said. "Again, some of it is just rhythm, some of it is who he's playing with, right? He's played a lot of minutes especially in the second half of games with our two big guys, you know, and tonight he played with Rafael [Castro] who's been with us for three days. So some of it is like the group he's with – it's not necessarily setting him up for success."
That's a fair point. Preseason rotations are notoriously chaotic, and Bronny has often been thrown into lineups with little continuity. Still, the turnovers and cold shooting are real concerns for a player trying to carve out a role in a crowded backcourt.
What's clear is that the Lakers aren't ready to give up on him. Despite speculation that the franchise might consider moving Bronny if LeBron James were to leave, reports indicate the Lakers have no intention of trading him. As one Lakers writer noted, the team drafted him in the second round two years ago, developed him, and has plenty of people in the building who believe in his potential.
"It's not going to be one of those situations where they're just going to send Bronny to wherever LeBron goes," the writer said. "It would take something real for the Lakers to want to trade him."
Of course, that stance could soften if Bronny's struggles continue into the regular season. But for now, Redick's honest assessment isn't a death sentence — it's a reality check wrapped in patience. The coach knows better than most that development isn't linear, especially for a young player navigating enormous expectations.
Bronny's name carries weight, but his game is still a work in progress. The preseason has exposed holes, but it's also given him valuable film to learn from. Redick's willingness to speak plainly shows he's invested in Bronny's growth, not just his pedigree.
For a Lakers team with championship aspirations, every roster spot matters. Bronny will need to tighten his handle, find his shot, and prove he can contribute when the lights are brightest. Redick's message is simple: the talent is there, but the results aren't yet. And in the NBA, that's the truth that matters most.
