It’s official. Bronny James is indeed going to play for the Lakers’ G League affiliates, the South Bay Lakers. The speculations ended Thursday after sources confirmed to Shams Charania about the Lakers’ decision. So for the Bronny James followers, it’s time to mark the dates and keep a track of the G League side’s games. But surprise, they have already gone a step further.

Before even entering the league Bronny made the South Bay Lakers financially successful. To not miss Bronny’s debut against Salt Lake City on Saturday, fans rushed to secure their tickets, and reports indicate that all of them are currently sold out. The cheapest ticket available was reportedly priced at $189 which made the basketball game, the most expensive one this week. But prior to joining his new team, Bronny would wave a momentary goodbye to the Los Angeles supporters by appearing on the court tonight against the Philadelphia 76ers.

Anthony Davis has yet to receive the green light to return from his heel injury, but he is listed as probable for the game against the Sixers and so is Jaxson Hayes. Meanwhile, Rui Hachimura’s availability remains questionable due to an unknown illness. On the other hand, both Jarred Vanderbilt and Christian Wood are not considered fit to rejoin the squad. With the Lakers’ injury list continuing to grow, the franchise will be looking for Bronny to step up.

The Lakers head coach JJ Redick had clarified last month, “The plan for Bronny to move between the Lakers and South Bay has always been the plan since day one.” So if the 20-year-old can excel in the limited minutes he’s given tonight, the NBA team may look to rely on his skills further. According to ESPN, the G League affiliates are planning on utilising Bronny in their home games for now as he would switch between the two teams. But amid the testing times, Bronny has been asked to “relax.”

MLB star shares his wisdom with Bronny James

Only someone who has walked in the same shoes can offer the best advice. So, any advice from the former MLB star, who has shared the same stage with his father just like Bronny, should always be welcomed. During his appearance on Nightcap show, the Hall of Famer revealed that he told Bronny, “Hey, relax, enjoy it, be you, you’re not gonna be him. Nobody’s him.” 

That line certainly takes away the unnecessary pressure that has been mounted on the young guard. For now, his focus should be to develop his basketball skills as suggested by the NBA analysts and whenever Bronny is provided with the opportunity to make an appearance, he must make sure to give his absolute best. The South Bay Lakers HC, Zach Guthrie, has a reputation of nurturing young talents and being with him might do the world of good to Bronny before setting foot back on an NBA court.