Lakers Assign Bronny James to G League for Entire Road Trip
The dance between NBA and G League continues for Lakers rookie Bronny James. The 55th overall pick in the 2024 draft has split his early professional career between six NBA appearances and two G League showings, though his development has hit a temporary snag due to a heel injury.
Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James.
© Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
James, who's been nursing a left heel contusion, has found himself on the inactive list for the Lakers' last three games. The timing is particularly interesting as the team announced Sunday that both James and forward Maxwell Lewis have been assigned to the South Bay Lakers, just as the G League squad settles in for a two-game homestand.
The move raises some eyebrows given its timing. South Bay just hosted the Stockton Kings on Sunday - a game Bronny missed - suggesting the heel issue might be improving enough for him to potentially suit up for Tuesday's clash with the San Diego Clippers. After all, if the Lakers didn't see him playing soon, why make the assignment now?
For those tracking Bronny's unique development path, there's been a clear pattern: he's remained with the NBA squad during South Bay's road games, maximizing time with his father, LeBron James. But with the Lakers embarking on a two-game road swing through Phoenix and San Antonio, the organization appears ready to let Bronny focus on his G League development in El Segundo.
The young guard's NBA stint has been more substantial than many expected for a late second-round pick. However, between the heel contusion and his absence from the regular rotation, this G League assignment might be exactly what Bronny needs - assuming his heel cooperates.
