J.J. Redick has weighed in on the ongoing debate surrounding Bronny James and whether the young player truly has what it takes to thrive in the NBA. Despite heavy scrutiny, particularly from Stephen A. Smith, who has been openly critical of Bronny‘s skills and position on the Los Angeles Lakers, Redick is taking a different approach.
The Lakers‘ recent game against the Milwaukee Bucks gave Bronny James a rare chance to shine, with LeBron James sitting out due to injury, and other key players like Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, Jarred Vanderbilt, and Dorian Finney-Smith also unavailable.
With a depleted roster, head coach J.J. Redick had little choice but to rely heavily on the younger James, who ended up playing 30 minutes on the court.
The result? Bronny delivered an impressive performance, scoring 17 points with a solid shooting display, including 2 of 4 from three-point range, and contributing 5 assists and 3 rebounds.
While the game’s intensity was lacking, particularly since it was practically over from the start, Bronny‘s ability to stay calm under pressure and produce consistent numbers hasn’t gone unnoticed.
Magic Johnson Backs Bronny’s NBA Future
Redick‘s remarks were only reinforced by Magic Johnson, who has already expressed his confidence in Bronny‘s potential.
Following the Lakers‘ preseason games, Magic made his stance clear, stating: “Lakers Nation, I have to tell you, Bronny James is going to be a really good basketball player. Last night he showed he has several things you simply can’t teach, like a high basketball IQ, athletic ability, and a competitive spirit that makes him a tenacious defender. I believe after a lot of hard work this season, he will definitely be in the Lakers‘ rotation and play many minutes.”
Redick‘s confidence in Bronny may not sit well with Stephen A. Smith, who has previously questioned Bronny‘s capabilities and even criticized LeBron James for allegedly using his influence to secure opportunities for his son.
But with performances like the one against the Bucks, Redick‘s prediction of Bronny earning significant playing time this season seems more plausible.
While it’s still early days, the support from respected figures like J.J. Redick and Magic Johnson suggests that Bronny James might just prove his doubters wrong.
Whether Stephen A. Smith can accept that possibility remains to be seen.
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