Bronny James’ future has just become drastically complicated. While Bronny continues his development in the G-League, the Los Angeles Lakers decided that they cannot wait for the controversial rookie and opted to add veteran Dorian Finney-Smith to their roster, precisely in the position that James could occupy.
Bronny’s arrival in the NBA was loaded with expectations, not only to make history by playing alongside his famous father, LeBron James, but to see if he could overcome the obstacles that marked his college career, especially the cardiac arrest that almost caused him to retire.
James Jr. received the opportunity, and together with “The King,” they became the first father-and-son duo to play together in an official NBA game. However, his lack of experience took a heavy toll on him, and Bronny was demoted to the G-League to complete his development.
What does Dorian’s arrival mean for Bronny?
Earlier last week, the Lakers signed of Dorian Finney-Smith, looking to solidify the team’s resurgence after a difficult start to the season. The nine-year veteran arrived in Los Angeles on a four-year, $55.6 million contract.
Finney-Smith is one of the best players in the 3-and-D role. Throughout his career, he has a 35.9% efficiency in three-pointers and 43.6% in field goals. Bronny, on the other hand, hits 21.2% of his three-pointers and 36.6% in his field goals-percentages that are not ideal even for the G-League.
Moreover, with 548 games under his belt, the former Brooklyn Net provides the Lakers with the experience that the young James currently lacks. Bronny is even behind fellow rookie Dalton Knecht, who played 154 games in the NCAA, compared to James’ 25 games averaging 20 minutes per game.
The bottom line for Bronny
With a third of the NBA season gone, the Lakers are in fifth place in the Western Conference with 20 wins and 14 losses. The team is in a tight battle for the fourth spot with the Denver Nuggets, Dallas Mavericks, and Los Angeles Clippers.
As much as it pains Bronny’s fans, head coach J.J. Redick can’t afford to bring the rookie back to the main team for now. Although he has shown notable progress, with so much at stake, the young James will have no choice but to be patient and wait for his chance.
