Stephen A. Smith has left the hoop community buzzing with harsh criticism for Bronny James. Following the rookie’s scoreless performance in Philly on Tuesday, the veteran analyst claimed Bronny is only in the NBA because of his father and belongs in the G League instead. He also called out Daddy James, saying, “I am pleading with LeBron James as a father – Stop this! Stop this!” As expected, Stephen A.’s remarks did not sit well with many people and it turns out, his own ESPN colleague did not support his stance.

Yes, we are talking about Pat McAfee. Discussing Bronny’s potential on his podcast, the NFL legend said, “Can’t wait to watch him continue to develop because you got people on our channel on ESPN saying – LeBron, stop doing this to your kid. This week.” Although he didn’t call out Stephen A. directly, everyone knew he was the one McAfee was referring to.

Moreover, Pat also speculated what LeBron feels about the situation, “I don’t think LeBron feels that way at all. I think LeBron feels the complete opposite and he’s probably assuming a year from now everybody’s gonna have to eat their words. Maybe that’ll be the case.” Well, the hope is that Bronny will continue to develop his game and eventually claim a permanent spot on the Lakers’ main roster.

Of course, he has shown tremendous growth in the G League in recent months. Bronny is averaging 16.3 points and over four assists in his limited appearances. He even scored a career-high 31 points against the Rip City Remix last week and set the internet on fire with some highlight dunks. However, Stephen A. believes the rookie is not ready for the big stage yet.

But what are the Lakers doing about it?

Pat McAfee questions ESPN Insider about Bronny James’ future in LA

Besides expressing support to Bronny amid the controversy, McAfee also asked his guest, Shams Charania, if Rob Pelinka plans to trade the rookie anytime soon. Shams responded, “I don’t see the Lakers doing anything with Bronny James while LeBron James is on that roster.”

Yes, the LA franchise has made it clear that Bronny is the primary piece of their developmental program and it was clear he would be on the team for the long run when he inked a four-year $7.9 million rookie contract.

Obviously, trading Bronny is too big a risk as it could make LeBron unhappy. And the Lakers definitely don’t want that. Now that trading the rookie is out of the question, Charania also revealed how Bronny can find his place in the NBA, “I really think point guard is a spot that he has to continue to be comfortable with and embrace. And I think that is the maturation.”

Yes, the 20-year-old has struggled to find his role on the team because he is not elite at one specific skill and is more of a combo guard. Moreover, his size puts him at a major disadvantage in most positions. But Bronny has shown in the G League he can be a good facilitator. He even showed glimpses of it last night during the Wizards game as he dished out two assists and played solid defense.

Well, Bronny needs to build on this momentum and be more consistent in the role like Shams said. Maybe then, Stephen A. and other critics will believe he is NBA-ready. What are your thoughts?