Lakers' treatment of Bronny James criticized by ESPN NBA writer as 'gone too far'

Commenting on Bronny's G League schedule, Windhorst, who has been covering LeBron James since high school, shared his thoughts.

Lakers' treatment of Bronny James criticized by ESPN NBA writer as 'gone too far'
Lakers' treatment of Bronny James criticized by ESPN NBA writer as 'gone too far'

Unlike other NBA rookies, Bronny James' schedule this year will involve playing only for the Los Angeles Lakers' G League affiliate, the South Bay Lakers, during home games.

If South Bay only plays home games, Bronny won't be flying for the team's road games, according to ESPN's Brian Windhorst on "The Hoop Collective" podcast.

In Windhorst's view, the Lakers' treatment of James, LeBron's son, has exceeded its limits.

Bronny James dribbles
Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James (9) drives to the basket against Cleveland Cavaliers forward Jaylon Tyson (24) during the second half at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland Oct. 30, 2024. (Ken Blaze/Imagn Images)

I understand that he received some special treatment and nepotism, but I don't care. It's normal," Windhorst said. "However, I now believe it's harmful to him. I don't like it. I don't know who came up with the idea. The Lakers are okay with it, though, as they are implementing it.

"In this case, I believe that's taken it too far, and it won't benefit Bronny or the South Bay Lakers. Additionally, I don't think it will benefit LeBron at that point."

Last month, during the Lakers' victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves, the James father-son duo made history by sharing an NBA court together for the first time.

JJ Redick has limited the use of Bronny in the Lakers' 10 games, with Bronny appearing in six of them and scoring a total of four points.

Bronny James shoots
Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James (9) shoots over the defense of Cleveland Cavaliers forward Jaylon Tyson (24) during the second half at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland Oct. 30, 2024. (Ken Blaze/Imagn Images)

On Saturday, Bronny scored six points, provided four assists, and grabbed three rebounds in 31 minutes during his G League debut.

Bronny's development is hindered by Windhorst's inability to comprehend not receiving the complete G League experience.

Bronny James warms up before a Lakers game
Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James against the Phoenix Suns at Footprint Center in Phoenix, Ariz., Oct. 28, 2024. (Mark J. Rebilas/Imagn Images)

The Lakers have a 6-4 record to begin the season, which places them seventh in the Western Conference.

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by Scott Thompson

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