In a candid post-game admission, JJ Redick confessed to putting Bronny James in a tough spot during the Lakers’ nationally televised loss to the Philadelphia 76ers. The surprise move, aimed at giving the rookie a chance to contribute early in the game, backfired as the 20-year-old failed to make any impact on the floor. Redick, known for his direct approach, not only acknowledged the failed decision but also openly critiqued James’ performance.

The night began with high expectations after Bronny had a standout performance in his previous G-League outing, where he scored a career-high 31 points. This earned him a spot in the Lakers’ lineup against the 76ers. However, the momentum quickly shifted when Redick called him in during the first quarter at the 4:33 mark with the Lakers leading 17-9.

What followed was far from the coach’s plan.

In just under four minutes, Bronny committed a turnover, a shooting foul, and missed a long-range shot. By the end of the first quarter, the game was tied at 25-25, and Bronny finished the night with zero points (0-6 FG) in 15 minutes of play.

When asked about the surprise call, Bronny admitted that he didn’t know he would be put in until he was told to check-in. It came out of nowhere, so I was just always trying to stay ready to play and always keep my mind right, ” he said. His response highlighted the unexpected nature of the call, which came at a critical point in the game. He also added, “I knew beforehand that I was coming and get some minutes but I didn’t know before I got the call to come.“

For Redick, the rookie’s recent surge in the G-League partly influenced the decision to put Bronny in early.

JJ Redick digs deeper into the Bronny James decision

The coach explained at the post-game presser that he felt Bronny’s energy would be beneficial to the team, especially on a back-to-back game. “Just felt like on a back-to-back, just him giving his energy, I think, was the goal”, Redick said. However, Redick admitted that the plan didn’t work out as expected. May be put him in a tough spot, flying up yesterday you know nationally televised game”, he acknowledged.

Despite the rough outing, Redick wasn’t shy about offering his support for Bronny’s potential. “He didn’t play well but he has been playing great in the stay-ready games and he’s been great in the G. So, I have confidence in him”, Redick said, though he also noted that Bronny’s performance didn’t live up to the expectations.” Obviously didn’t provide that on a high level.”

The loss to a short-handed Sixers team was disappointing, and the situation raised questions about Bronny’s future role under Redick’s coaching. While it’s clear that Bronny’s recent performances in the G-League have earned him some attention, this latest setback may make it harder for him to earn consistent minutes on the court. Redick’s decision to bring him in during a critical moment may not have gone as planned, but it also shows the coach’s belief in the rookie’s potential, even if the result wasn’t ideal.

So, what’s next for Bronny James? Will his hard work in the G-League be enough to earn him another shot, or will Redick give him another surprise opportunity in future games? Only time will tell, but it’s clear that the rookie is on the coach’s radar—how he responds to the challenges ahead will be key to his development in the NBA. Fans and analysts alike are left wondering if this rough start will hold him back or if Bronny will rise to the occasion in his next chance.