NBA insider Zach Lowe has confirmed that Bronny James will play in the Los Angeles Lakers’ season opener. Lowe made this statement during an appearance on The Bill Simmons Podcast.
“He’s 100% playing in the opening game so they can have a moment together,” Lowe said, referring to Bronny and his father, LeBron James.
Bronny, who was selected 55th overall by the Lakers this summer, has faced significant scrutiny regarding his performance. His college career at USC was marked by modest numbers.
During his time at USC, Bronny averaged just 4.8 points per game while playing 19.3 minutes per contest. He ranked as the eighth-leading scorer on his team.
Criticism of his draft position has surfaced, with some alleging that his connection to LeBron James influenced the Lakers’ decision. His Summer League performance has also been a point of concern.
Bronny averaged 8.8 points per game in the Summer League, shooting only 35.0% from the field and 15.8% from three-point range. Despite these struggles, the Lakers have shown faith in the 19-year-old player.
The team signed him to a four-year, $7.9 million contract, ensuring he will have time to develop within the organization. This commitment by the Lakers highlights their belief in Bronny’s potential, regardless of his initial struggles.
LeBron has expressed his excitement about the possibility of playing alongside his son in the NBA. The season opener is expected to be a special moment for the father-son duo, creating a historic milestone in the league.
The Lakers will open the regular season on October 22 with a home game against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
