Bronny James being drafted by the Lakers was at all times going to draw intense criticism and cries of nepotism.
James says he’s conscious of what’s being stated about him on-line and addressed the criticism throughout his first official day on the job with the Lakers on Tuesday.
“I’ve already seen it on social media and stuff, and the web and stuff and speaking about that I may not deserve a possibility,” he stated. “However I’ve been coping with stuff like this my entire life. So it’s nothing completely different, but it surely’s extra amplified, for positive. However I’ll get by way of it.”
Bronny additionally stated that enjoying along with his father was not a part of his determination to declare for the draft this yr, after simply spending only one season in school.
“Rob (Pelinka) has instructed me that there’s an amazing growth system right here, so I simply wish to are available in and get my work in and get higher every single day,” he stated. “I by no means actually had a considered me going to play with my dad. However that’s at all times there to participate of. However that wasn’t the principle focus of mine.”
Lakers head coach JJ Redick was fast to insist that Bronny’s spot on the staff had been earned, not given.
“Rob and I didn’t give Bronny something,” Redick stated. “Bronny has earned this. … Bronny has earned this by way of laborious work.”
James’ contract is predicted to be finalised earlier than the Lakers start their Summer season League marketing campaign on the California Class on Saturday, in response to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin.
Bronny’s agent, Wealthy Paul, and the Lakers have mentioned a multiyear contract that may safe a roster spot for the incoming rookie.
Paul had beforehand stated he wouldn’t entertain a two-way deal for Bronny.
READ MORE: Bronny James Ghosted Each Group Different Than Lakers and Suns Earlier than The Draft
