JJ Redick is willing to take the blame for Bronny’s mistakes, but backs him to do one thing amid Summer League ‘slump’

Bronny James hasn’t had the best start to his NBA career. In his Summer League debut, the 19-year-old initially showed his potential. He added six consecutive points for the Lakers. Thereafter, he could only score two more points to finish his night with 8 points and 3 turnovers in the loss to the Houston Rockets. His defense and shooting prowess were meant to set him apart, or at least justify his place in the NBA. So far, he has yet to hit a single three-pointer in 12 attempts.

Following the 99-80 loss to the Rockets, James spoke to reporters about his performance. He was asked about the possibility of spending time in the NBA G-League as a way to develop. All that matters to the Lakers rookie is having the opportunity to spend as much time on the court as possible.

“I look forward to playing basketball, no matter what level I play at”Bronny James told ESPN.

There were reports that the Lakers would prefer to have Bronny James for the start of the season to share the court with his father, LeBron James. After the historic moment, he will most likely migrate to the G-League and join the South Bay Lakers. This will likely help not only the teenager’s confidence but also revitalize his game mechanics. So far, his offense has been mediocre and he has struggled to make any sort of significant impact in the Summer League.

The talent that stands out the most, however, is his defense. Even at 6’11”, Bronny James displays incredible instincts as a relentless defender. He accepted the task of guarding Reed Shepard, the third pick in the draft, throughout the game. When Lakers head coach JJ Redick joined the game broadcast, he revealed his vision for tapping into James’ defensive potential.

“We want him to push the ball. I told him yesterday: ‘If they outplay you, if you have 10 fouls, it’s my fault. I want you to push the ball.’” Redick said.

Through three games, Bronny James has helped the Lakers primarily through his high-activity defense. The USC alum holds his ground like a dog and is persistent in making the Lakers work for every basket. His steals total now stands at five through three games, showing the first signs of his potential utilization by the Lakers as a threatening defender.

The potential of Bronny James

Ever since he was drafted, JJ Redick has been extremely complimentary of the 19-year-old. He believes his talent can translate flawlessly to the NBA. That being said, the newly appointed Lakers head coach has a vague plan of what he expects from Bronny James. Redick wants to develop his defensive skills and relies on his cognitive instincts for playmaking.

But the main priority is helping him become a pressure defender. While speaking on Sirius XM Radio, Redick recalled the player he saw during the exhibition game between Team USA and Team Canada who perfectly represents what he expects from Bronny James.

“We were at the Canada-USA exhibition basketball game… And I said, ‘I think Lu Dort single-handedly broke through on the eighth possession of the game. Just like his impact, sometimes you can’t get into your offense, the shot clock runs out because of his pressure on the ball. He literally ruins entire plays because of his pressure. And I really believe in this, Bronny will eventually be that guy.’ he claimed.

3+D players are in high demand in the NBA. Not only that, but they could greatly increase a team’s potential to compete if included in the right system. The Thunder have Dort limit the best offensive player while having him in a floor-spacing role when attacking to save his tank for defense.

If taught and guided well, Bronny James has those same qualities. He plays ferociously and doesn’t let up. Such terrifying defense is what the Lakers have lacked since their 2020 championship. They could achieve balance on both ends of the floor if the second-round pick can fit the mold Redick has envisioned for him.