Ever since Bronny James got drafted by the Lakers, his credibility as an NBA player has been in question. Is he truly ready for the big leagues? Among the many critics, Green Bay head coach Doug Gottlieb also blasted the rookie, claiming that the Lakers were treating him like a “Make-A-Wish kid.” He even pointed fingers at LeBron’s parenting, deeming him a “bad basketball parent” for using his influence to elevate his son to a level he is not currently deserving of.
Sure enough, LBJ was not pleased with Gottlieb’s comments and trolled him on social media during the All-Star break. Addressing Gottlieb and Green Bay’s abysmal 2-24 record, LeBron wrote, “Earned 2 Not Given! Gotta give him credit though!” with several laughing and poop emojis. As the drama continues to escalate, James’ agent and longtime pal, Rich Paul has broken silence on Bronny’s situation.
During an appearance on the Gil’s Arena podcast, Paul agreed with legend Kenyon Martin that Bronny needs more reps to develop his game, “In the G League. Absolutely.” Yes, the agent instructed the Lakers to give the 20-year-old more minutes in the developmental league. Since getting drafted, Bronny has been juggling dual stints playing in the G League and the main roster. And the difference between both has been night and day. While he has been dominant as a G Leaguer, he has failed to be productive wearing the Purple and Gold.
That’s why Kenyon believes the rookie should stick to the G League until the season is over, “Let him play his uninterrupted G League minutes and when the season is over, bring him up. Let him go on the road, let him get his bumps out, let him just play through mistakes. This is the plan for him because we did the same thing with KJ.” Of course, Kenyon has been in LeBron and Bronny’s situation before because while he was an All-Star, his son, Kenyon Martin Jr., was a late second-round draft pick and moved up the ladder by starting in the G League. And that’s how the path should be for Bronny.
“It’ll benefit him in the long run. We ain’t saying he’s gonna be his daddy. No! But this time is crucial for him because he’s still fragile in basketball period… We’re gonna let him be the 55th pick.” Martin added. And Paul seemed to agree with the legend’s perspective as he said, “Yeah. 100%.” Moreover, the agent dove into how playing in the G League can help a young star like Bronny.
Rich Paul claims he “Embraces” the G League, Highlighting its Purpose
While playing in the G League might seem disrespectful to some players, its purpose is to do the exact opposite. During the pod, Paul reminded everyone that the league’s original name was the D League, and its aim was strictly to develop a player and make them ready for the NBA. “The G League for today has a much better development criteria to it.” He remarked.
Oct 30, 2024; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James (9) shoots over the defense of Cleveland Cavaliers forward Jaylon Tyson (24) during the second half at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
Moreover, he highlighted his clients who have benefited from playing in the G League, “I represent Dejounte Murray. Played a full season in the G League and was the starting Point Guard in the Western Conference Finals against the Warriors. That’s development.” Yes, Murray is one of best guards in the league today. That’s why Paul advocates the G League, “I embrace the G League.” But he wants his players to get NBA salary, which is why he helped Bronny bag the four-year $7.9 million deal.
Well, Bronny has shown constant development playing for the South Bay Lakers, even scoring a career-high 31 points against the Rip City Remix, and averaging 22.6 points and over four assists. Moreover, his confidence has grown significantly as he has been aggressive attacking the basket, even getting some viral dunks. Surely, this experience will help him make the transition to the main roster as his career progresses. Maybe, it will even silence critics like Doug Gottlieb, who believes, “Bronny James is struggling and I’m not dancing on his grave. I’m not laughing at him. I’m telling you I know what it takes to be an NBA team and I saw all of this coming.” What are your thoughts?
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