TL;DR
- Bronny James sent to G-League due to performance and Lakers' health.
- James aims to improve off-ball effectiveness and shooting confidence.
- Coach JJ Redick encouraged James to shoot open three-pointers.
- G-League development is key for Bronny James to gain Redick's trust.
Bronny James, just one month into his second season with the Los Angeles Lakers, has already faced a major obstacle.
The USC player was recently sent down to the G-League due to his subpar performance early in the season and the Lakers' better health.
In a recent media availability, James sent an 11-word message to head coach JJ Redick and the Lakers following the unfortunate demotion in late November.
“I’m trying to focus now on bettering myself off the ball,” James stated Saturday.
“Me and JJ have talked about all the ball handlers on the parent team, so I have to learn how to be effective off the ball. Have a.5 mentality — shoot the ball when I have open shots and try to get better at that.”
James should be commended for recognizing his defensive weaknesses and promising to significantly improve in that area of the game.
The player, previously selected 55th overall, had multiple chances to be a productive catch-and-shoot player during his initial start of the season versus the Milwaukee Bucks.
James opted for a more passive approach, declining open three-point attempts, a decision that didn't please Redick, who clearly encouraged James to shoot when he had a clear look.
Given James's 27.3% three-point shooting percentage this season, it's fair to suggest he's struggling with his confidence from long range.
Should LeBron James' son, a four-time NBA champion, commit to his G-League development and evolve into a reliable long-range shooter, his prospects of gaining Redick's confidence and backing will likely increase.
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