Bronny James being drafted by the Lakers was at all times going to draw intense criticism and cries of nepotism.
James says he’s conscious of what’s being mentioned about him on-line and addressed the criticism throughout his first official day on the job with the Lakers on Tuesday.
“I’ve already seen it on social media and stuff, and the web and stuff and speaking about that I won’t deserve a chance,” he mentioned. “However I’ve been coping with stuff like this my complete life. So it’s nothing completely different, nevertheless it’s extra amplified, for positive. However I’ll get via it.”
Bronny additionally mentioned that enjoying together with his father was not a part of his choice to declare for the draft this 12 months, after simply spending only one season in school.
“Rob (Pelinka) has informed me that there’s an ideal growth system right here, so I simply wish to are available in and get my work in and get higher day-after-day,” he mentioned. “I by no means actually had a considered me going to play with my dad. However that’s at all times there to participate of. However that wasn’t the principle focus of mine.”
Lakers head coach JJ Redick was fast to insist that Bronny’s spot on the group had been earned, not given.
“Rob and I didn’t give Bronny something,” Redick mentioned. “Bronny has earned this. … Bronny has earned this via arduous work.”
James’ contract is predicted to be finalised earlier than the Lakers start their Summer season League marketing campaign on the California Class on Saturday, in accordance with ESPN’s Dave McMenamin.
Bronny’s agent, Wealthy Paul, and the Lakers have mentioned a multiyear contract that might safe a roster spot for the incoming rookie.
Paul had beforehand mentioned he wouldn’t entertain a two-way deal for Bronny.
READ MORE: Bronny James Ghosted Each Workforce Different Than Lakers and Suns Earlier than The Draft