As the Lakers introduce Bronny James, the teen also seems mentally ready to take the floor. Bronny was arguably the most anticipated to get drafted this year. While many have questioned his talents and abilities, the upcoming Summer League will be the answer to all the critics. Shooting below average from deep as a shooting guard, his freshman-year stats were to be concerned about. However, recently, alongside his dad LeBron James, the 19-year-old’s training videos amidst his incoming LA deal seem promising.

The California Classic is set to tip off this Saturday, as the Lakers will take on the Kings 2. Dalton Knecht, along with Bronny James, will be a duo to witness. The Lakers drafted Knecht at 17th overall, as the 23-year-old showcased a promising display. Bronny had sent a few words to his doubters, who may have judged him too quickly. “This summer I’ve tried to focus on preparing myself for wherever I was gonna end up. I feel like I wasn’t given a fair judgment, especially cause I had that incident”.

“Yeah, I’ve been working day-in-day-out and I feel like I’ve built myself into something that is, you know, ready to go,” he told Spectrum SportsNet. These were some bold statements from Bronny who looks pretty confident going into the Summer League.

While the teenager tests his abilities against guys his age, the pressure turns to the head coach. Redick will have to optimally use him, knowing how much the following season matters for the franchise. The Lakers have struggled in the last 2 years during the postseason.

Despite multiple changes in the roster, the squad hasn’t been as promising as it should’ve been. Of course, as a rookie, Bronny will have a diminished role, but it is also important to know his potential. Coaching the Lakers will already be a huge part of Redick’s job, which he does look forward to with interest. However, the first-rounder and Bronny James are also valuable assets.

If not for the following season, the rookies will play vital roles for the franchise in the long run. To put this into perspective, Bronny is looking at a guaranteed contract.

What’s next for Bronny James and the Lakers?

The teenager is planning to sign a multi-year guaranteed deal this summer. His contract would align with LeBron’s, covering at least three years. Making a successful run in the regular season first is the main goal. After signing Bronny, neither the franchise nor the teen can take a back seat. James Jr. has a lot of expectations on his shoulders. Apart from that, the Lakers have to make the best out of their next few seasons, considering King James’ retirement.

It is going to be an interesting summer for the rookies and the Lakers. The franchise has yet to add a valuable free agent and construct a balanced lineup. The most recent rumors were that of Klay Thompson eyeing the opportunity, however, the sharpshooter has favored the Mavs. DeMar DeRozan is reported to be Jeanie Buss and Co’s newest target, tugging against the Miami Heat.

The Crypto arena will also be looking at sold-out crowds in the upcoming season. With King James on the floor alongside his son and Redick dictating plays from the sidelines, it will be a sight to see.

JJ has also been very reassuring when it comes to all the stigma surrounding his podcast pal’s son. “Rob and I did not give Bronny anything. Bronny has earned this…Bronny has earned this through hard work,” he said, putting his trust and hope in the teen.

What are your thoughts on Bronny? Do you think he’ll put on a good show in the Summer League? Let us know in the comments.

Stay tuned for more such updates, and to follow what brand maker, Leonard Armato, had to say about the deadly duo, Shaq and Kobe, check out this exclusive video by EssentiallySports.