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Lakers Back Bronny James’s Development and Plan to Keep Him on Roster

Insiders say he is likely to survive the final roster cut because the Lakers value his athleticism, length, work ethic, with a need for better shooting, stronger defense, fewer turnovers.

Overview

  • Lakers insider Dan Woike told a Reddit AMA on Friday that the organization “genuinely believes” in Bronny James as both a person and a developing player.
  • Woike reported that Bronny appears likely to survive the single mandatory roster cut the team must make before the regular season, with Dalton Knecht identified as the favorite to be released.
  • Bronny’s preseason raised concerns after he logged more turnovers than points and posted weak three-point numbers, and coaches say he must improve shooting, ball security and defense to earn consistent minutes.
  • Los Angeles added Collin Sexton, Quentin Grimes and Jaden Hardy this offseason, which increases competition for reserve guard minutes and makes playing time harder to secure.
  • LeBron James’s departure to Philadelphia has removed the father-son storyline, leaving the Lakers to judge Bronny on his own merits and to reward sustained on-court progress with more opportunity or a longer-term deal.