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Will JJ Redick let Bronny James play to honor LeBron's wishes and boost Lakers' morale?

It’s tough not to talk about the Lakers. This season, the conversations revolved around an inevitable moment between LeBron James and his eldest son Bronny. The duo is poised to become the first father-son duo to feature in an NBA game. When speaking about it specifically, Bill Simmons felt odd about the implications the timing could have on rookie coach JJ Redick. He feels holding it off for long might paint a target on the former Clippers sharpshooter. However, Zach Lowe thinks it’s coming from the moment the season begins.

In their opening game of the regular season, the James-Davis-led Lakers take on the Minnesota Timberwolves. It’s a heavyweight bout to set the tone. Anthony Edwards and the Wolves are ready for the hunt. Bronny being a developmental player and reportedly a G-League prospect could be called up anytime in the season to play a significant game with his father. Lowe though believes Redick won’t want to waste any time to give his ace a historic moment.

“He’s 100% playing in the opening game so that they can have a moment together. That’s going to happen. So they pass to each other, whatever it ends up being,” the media veteran said about the situation on the Bill Simmons podcast.

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USA Today via Reuters

There are several ways the Lakers can play this. However, opening night seems to be the rational way to go for a team that’s hopeful to find their identity as soon as possible. Redick might decide to get the biggest storyline finished by the opening game to ensure the tensions don’t loom throughout the campaign.

Furthermore, it’s also beneficial for Bronny James. The debut coach has praised his efforts to learn and adapt. The sooner he can transfer to the G-League and begin polishing his skills, the more firepower the Purple and Gold could have by the end of the season. The 19-year-old is in no hurry to become a star. Bronny wants to walk his own path, no matter how rigorous it might be.

A stint in the G-League with the South Bay Lakers will assist him in settling against NBA pressure and answering the demands of the league. As for the Lakers, they already have a defensive gem who couldn’t unleash last season due to injuries.

The Lakers could crack the code with their guard rotation

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Will JJ Redick let Bronny James play to honor LeBron's wishes and boost Lakers' morale?

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Rob Pelinka didn’t make many calls during free agency to alter the roster. A massive reason behind doing so could be Redick’s curiosity in utilizing the already present pieces. The Lakers’ four-year extension for Max Christie signaled a dramatic increase in his duties. The losses of Taurean Prince and Dinwiddie have opened up a place for a floor spacer.

In the talks he has had with Redick, the bubbling prospect seems excited about the plans he has for him. Primarily, his defensive instincts and floor spacing have been underlined by the NBA veteran. However, another piece that the Lakers could severely thrive from is Gabe Vincent.

Just two seasons ago, he was making Jalen Brunson’s life miserable. Sadly, he spent most of last season recouping from his injury. But he is back and is feeling healthy and pumped to make an impact. Last year, the Lakers’ backcourt duo of Russell and Reaves couldn’t handle opposing guards with tenacious defense.

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Vincent is a point-of-attack defender who gives marginal room at best to any guard he is matched up with. His contributions as a hustle player while making periodic buckets could be of exponential help to LeBron James. In Redick’s system, the Lakers do have genuine three-point threats around the King. And the former broadcaster is a savant who is obsessed with tactical play.

When two great minds meet, it often leads to success. The question is, can the Lakers attain it with the core they presently have? Let us know what you think in the comments below.

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