The Los Angeles Lakers lost their second straight game since LeBron James returned. That’s a shocking and at the same time worrisome situation for JJ Redick to deal with. The Orlando Magic managed to shut down the Purple and Gold’s elite offense. However, although his night may have begun with misery, the Akron Hammer shed a smile at the end of it. That’s because of the brilliance of his son Bronny James.

There’s been so much happening around the 20-year-old. But although it might be a significant amount of pressure, Bronny has preached to one habit. He keeps working and trying to better himself as a basketball product. The product of that work ethic showed during his exemplary night with the South Bay Lakers.

While LeBron James had a hard time battling the Magic, the Lakers rookie was putting on a clinical night. He surpassed his G-League career-high, scoring 39 points in the South Bay Lakers’ win against the Santa Cruz Warriors. Likewise, as a father, James was swelling with pride. And he left an encouraging message for the star of the night.

“SMILE THROUGH IT ALL YOUNG [KING] !!! KEEP GOING!!,” James wrote on X to celebrate Bronny James’ career night.

As for him, the 40-year-old did get some momentum under his belt in his second game back from a groin injury. The King amassed 24 points along with 7 assists in the loss against the Magic. But his shooting rhythm is yet to fall in place. Over the two games, he’s only made a single of his five three-pointer attempts.

However, there was something unusual about how the four-time MVP ended his night. And it could be linked to Bronny James.

LeBron James makes an exception for Bronny James?

Irrespective of the result LeBron James is always present to talk to the media. It’s a part of a player’s duties within the NBA to talk to reporters and share their thoughts after the game. The Lakers star forward has done so consistently throughout his career. But tonight, he missed speaking to the media.

It could be linked to several reasons. But one that stands out is maybe getting a glimpse of his son having a defining night in the G-League. His absence could also be due to him trying to get some rehab after playing 38 minutes against a highly physical Orlando Magic team. But in the past, grueling battles haven’t stopped him from doing so.

But from the time Bronny James started his professional basketball journey, James has been heavily invested. Notably, even when playing for Team USA, the 40-year-old did everything to catch his son in action. While in London for the exhibition games before the Olympics, he tuned in during the middle of the night to watch a Summer League game.

A day before when the team was in Abu Dhabi, LeBron James finished his workouts early to watch the 20-year-old in action. It won’t affect James’ daily routine or immediate focus. But once there is time, he does opt to watch Bronny James closely, probably still trying to process the reality that has unfolded this year.