Despite all the criticisms and ridicule that followed Bronny James, it seems like he is getting quite the support from the crowd whenever he enters the floor. Any time he scores or plays particularly well, cheers of encouragement can be heard throughout the arena. However, the latest matchup against the Boston Celtics was particularly trying, even for the supportive crowd at Thomas & Mack Center. In fact, many were seen leaving the arena way before the game ended.

In contrast to the impressive performance he showcased at the Draft Combine, Bronny’s fourth game in the Summer League against the Celtics was one he’d rather forget. His stat line was one reminiscent of his underwhelming USC days – an average of 4.3 points, 3.8 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 1.3 steals.

And even when the merciless trolling continued, there were still many who made sure to give him his support. Interestingly, that was a point of discussion in the latest episode of The Odd Couple with Chris Broussard & Rob Parker. However, instead of Parker, the podcast had Martin Weiss join Broussard this time. The two were discussing how James Jr. would be treated be it the Summer League or NBA. 

“Guys are going to really go hard at him. As they should. … You [also] see Bronny getting cheers from the crowd and I’m happy about that. I’m glad that he’s getting treated looks. I, for the most part, think people are kind of handling it with kid gloves. They know he’s in a challenging situation … So, I think people are taking it easy on him, trying to be patient with him. But ultimately it’s going to come down to, [Bronny] have [-ing] to stand on his own. Now, he does have the four-year deal or three years guarantee, which is great for him. But at the end of the day, this gonna come down to him getting it done on his own outside of LeBron.” 

Every time No. 55 is asked about LeBron James or his wish of playing with his son, Bronny has made it clear that it was not his dream. And while it surely was an honor and a special moment, the 19-year-old wished to pave a different path from that of his father. Of course, it’s easier said than done. First and foremost, he is the firstborn son of the James clan. He has one of the greatest to ever set foot on the basketball court as his father.

So, it doesn’t really matter where he goes or what he does. There will always be that larger-than-life shadow of his NBA legend Dad. The only way out, crazy as it sounds, is to do what Broussard said. Get things done that do not have a LeBron imprint on it. And it seems like he might be taking that first step already.

Bronny James admits he is open to playing at any level of basketball as long as it helps him get better

So, why was this such a huge news? The reason is simple – Rich Paul. The family’s basketball agent. Prior to Bronny’s draft, Klutch Sports CEO had made one thing absolutely clear. There wasn’t going to be any two-way deal. If a team wanted the former USC guard, they were going to have to hand him a real deal. Or in other words, the kind that the Lakers just offered.

It also meant that No. 9, unlike many other draftees, wouldn’t be spending time in the G League. As per Paul, “It’s hard to get real development on a two-way deal.” Of course, analysts and former NBA players were quite sure that Bronny would end up spending at least some time in the G League, given the kind of development he still requires to up his game. After four games in the Summer League, it looks like the teenager has also come to that realization.

“I just feel like I’m in a little slump right now. I’m just looking forward to any basketball I play, no matter what level I’m playing at,” James said after the Lakers’ opening game loss to Houston in Vegas. He left the statement open to interpretation, but it was clear that Bronny was feeling the pressure. And if going to the G League would help him in an all-round development, then that was what he would do. Or at least, that seemed to be the message.

Well, many still stand their ground on the argument that Bronny James will have a successful career. It’s a long way and patience is key. But once he gets going, there would be no stopping him. For the 19-year-old’s sake, let’s hope that will be the case. Thoughts?

 Before you go, though, be sure to check this video of Leonardo Armato’s take on the deadly duo, Shaq and Kobe. Don’t forget to check back in for more such updates from our ES Fancast!