Bronny James. Image via: Katelyn Mulcahy/ Getty Images
The 22-year-old guard has played 12 minutes this season and has four points for a 7-2 team. The younger James is signed to a fully guaranteed deal through 2026-27, with a team option for the year after. Bronny James shot 25% from the floor in the preseason, going 4 of 16, and made one of eight three-pointers.
Coach JJ Redick had already cast doubt on his place, saying last month, “I don’t think he’s played well in the four preseason games.” The elder James left for the Philadelphia 76ers in July, making this the first season in Los Angeles without him. Coachella Valley opens its season Friday.
The Los Angeles Lakers assigned Bronny James to the Coachella Valley Lakers on Thursday, and nobody has said when he will be back.
What does Bronny James’ contract say about his future?
ESPN’s Dave McMenamin reported he averaged 18.4 points on 49.6% shooting, with 4.4 assists and 4.0 rebounds, over 25 games for South Bay in the past two seasons. He also hit 37.9% of 158 threes last year across NBA and G League play. James has produced in the G League before. Those numbers point to a shooter’s role more than a playmaker’s.