Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick evaluated Bronny James’s performance across four NBA preseason games, pointing to struggles in rhythm and shooting efficiency after the guard averaged 17.5 minutes per contest with mixed results for the team, according to coverage by The Sporting News.
JJ Redick Critiques Bronny James After Four Preseason Outings
The Los Angeles Lakers wrapped up an early segment of their exhibition schedule with a 2-2 record, leaving head coach JJ Redick to evaluate rotation adjustments ahead of the upcoming campaign. Amid those evaluations, Bronny James drew a direct and public assessment from his coach regarding his output during his 17.5 minutes per game across four appearances.
JJ Redick on Bronny: “I don’t think he’s played well in the four preseason games, but he’s had good practices… Some of it is like the group he’s with; I think that is not necessarily setting him up for success.” pic.twitter.com/6jEhPBhsSS
“I don’t think he’s played well in the four preseason games, but he’s had good practices. Some of it is just rhythm. He’s playing a lot of minutes, especially in the second half of games… Some of it is like the group he’s with; I think that is not necessarily setting him up for success,” Redick stated, as reported by The Sporting News.
Shooting Struggles and Ball-Handling Metrics Define the Preseason
Data compiled by NBA Base outline the statistical hurdles James faced during his floor time. Through four games, he averaged 2.8 points while shooting 26.7 percent from the field and 14.3 percent from beyond the arc. In addition to shooting inefficiencies, ball-security issues surfaced as he committed approximately three turnovers per contest in under 20 minutes of action.
Despite the offensive challenges, there were areas of contribution that offered stability. James averaged 2.8 rebounds, 3.2 assists, 0.5 steals, and 0.2 blocks per night, demonstrating effort and playmaking instincts that went beyond his scoring totals.
Lakers Rotation Adjustments Ahead of the Regular Season
Redick enters the structural planning phase with Luka Dončić installed as the primary superstar around whom the roster is constructed. The coaching staff has prioritized versatile shot-creators over one-dimensional shooters to alleviate offensive strain, creating a competitive environment for bench positions.
With the preseason concluding and the standard 82-game regular season approaching, Redick faces the task of identifying specific lineup combinations that maximize James’s strengths without placing excessive statistical pressure on their chances of winning.
Preseason Performance Breakdown
- Minutes Per Game: 17.5
- Points Per Game: 2.8
- Field Goal Percentage: 26.7%
- Three-Point Percentage: 14.3%
- Rebounds Per Game: 2.8
- Assists Per Game: 3.2
- Turnovers Per Game: ~3.0
The team continues its preparation ahead of the official regular-season tip-off under Redick and Dončić.
