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Jj Redick Throws Lakers Players Under Bus To Excuse Bronny James’ Poor Play

Bronny James is eager to prove he can thrive in the NBA outside of father LeBron’s shadow this season.

But he has looked exposed without his father so far in the Lakers’ preseason.

Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James (9) looks on against the Sacramento Kings during a game at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

The 22-year-old went scoreless on two field-goal attempts, along with one rebound and four turnovers in 11 minutes against the Warriors on Tuesday night.

Through four preseason games, James has averaged 2.8 points, 2.8 rebounds and 3.3 assists in 17.5 minutes per game.

Lakers coach JJ Redick was asked how he assesses James’ “confidence and aggression” throughout this preseason, given how last season ended for him.

“Yeah. I thought he had a really nice September and a good summer. I don’t think he has played well in the four preseason games, but he has had good practices,” Redick said.

Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick speaks to Bronny James during the second half of a preseason game against the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center in San Francisco, California, Sunday, Oct. 6, 2026. Getty Images

“Again, some of it is just rhythm; some of it is who he’s playing with. He’s playing a lot of minutes, especially in the second half of games, with our two-way guys. And tonight, he played with Rafael [Castro], who has been with us for three days,” he continued.

“Some of it is the group he’s with; I think that is not necessarily setting him up for success,” Redick added.

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
— NBABase (@TheNBABase) October 14, 2026

Redick’s answer about James has gotten a lot of attention on social media, as many fans feel like he’s trying to excuse James’ poor play on the teammates he has been playing with.

There might be some truth to James’ supporting cast doing him no favors. But those who are watching the Lakers this preseason can clearly see James is struggling, regardless of who he’s on the court with.

Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick looks on during the game against the Golden State Warriors on Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2026, at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. NBAE via Getty Images

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Jj Redick Throws Lakers Players Under Bus To Excuse Bronny James’ Poor Play

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