JJ Redick continues showing faith in Bronny James despite near scoreless outing
Bronny James had a rough debut for the LA Lakers in preseason, but coach JJ Redick continues to root for the rookie. Bronny returned with two points, one rebound, one assist, and three blocks on 1-of-6 shooting in LA"s 124-107 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday.
However, Redick was impressed with what Bronny showed defensively and provided words of encouragement for LeBron James' oldest son after the game.
"We're really happy with his progress," Redick said. "The kid, you know, he can do some things defensively at his size that are really unique and can I think turn him into a really disruptive defender and that kind of manifested.
"On the offensive end, he's still trying to kind of find out who he is, and that's our job as a player developmental program just to build him up ... I liked what I say from Bronny, truth of the fact, he's so easy to coach."
Redick also complimented Bronny's energy and vibe, which made him someone he wanted to be around.
"I'm rooting for him," Redick said.
JJ Redick has discussed Bronny James' importance to the Lakers' developmental program for young players, citing he is their first project under his coaching. Bronny is expected to split time with the Lakers' G League affiliate, South Bay Lakers, and the NBA team this year.
Bronny James lauds JJ Redick's coaching
Bronny James has been impressed with JJ Redick's coaching. He praised the rookie coach's efforts, citing the vibes at the Lakers' practices.
"He's a great coach so far. It's been amazing vibes in the facility so far. I feel like it's upped the vibes from what it was last year from what I've heard."
Redick came in with no prior coaching experience, but all players have lauded him for his attention to detail and structure, which many felt lacked under the previous regime. He already seems to have a great hold on the locker room filled with experienced and young players who have nothing but respect for his work and approach.
JJ Redick's debut preseason game as a coach didn't go as planned, but there were ample positive takeaways, especially from a playcalling and execution standpoint. The Lakers were shorthanded, but they put up a solid fight with what they had against a slightly stronger Timberwolves team that dominated them for most of the game.
Also read: Bronny James Stats Tonight: Lakers' $7.8M rookie barely escapes scoreless outing in massive preseason loss