Lakers send Bronny James to G League affiliate
The 22-year-old guard, who is averaging under one point per game in Los Angeles, joins the Coachella Valley Lakers ahead of Friday's matchup with Salt Lake City.
By Samuel Hayes ·
Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James has been reassigned to the Coachella Valley Lakers, the team's G League affiliate.
James, 22, has played in five games for the Lakers this season. His averages stand at 0.8 points and 0.2 blocks per game. He is shooting 66.7% from the field in that span.
The move follows a recent game where the Lakers bench struggled to protect a large lead. Head coach JJ Redick had to recall his starters in the final two minutes after the reserves nearly gave up a 15-point advantage. Redick said he would not repeat that error. He stated that players must be ready to play through the final buzzer or they would sit on the bench.
James is in his third year in the NBA. His production has been more consistent in the G League, where he averages 15.6 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 3.6 assists. His current contract is worth approximately $2.3 million and is fully guaranteed through the end of the 2026-27 season.
The South Bay Lakers changed their name to the Coachella Valley Lakers before the season started. They play home games at Acrisure Arena in Palm Desert. The team is scheduled to host the Salt Lake City Stars at that venue on Friday night.
James' assignment arrives after Dalton Knecht, who was recently waived by the Lakers, posted strong numbers in his debut for the New York Knicks. Knecht recorded 10 points, one assist, and one block in 16 minutes on Wednesday. Additionally, it was announced Thursday that Will Iger, son of Disney CEO Bob Iger, will serve as a play-by-play announcer for the G League affiliate.
