Stephen A. Smith calls Lakers drafting Bronny James a favor to LeBron JamesStephen A. Smith, Bronny James, and LeBron James (Images Credit: Getty Images)

The Los Angeles Lakers are having a solid season, ranking among the top teams in the Western Conference. Nevertheless, the greater spotlight has been on Bronny James, the 20-year-old son of LeBron James. Playing alongside his famous father is historic but has also led to questions about how Bronny got his spot. Some critics wonder if privilege played a role, and ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith shared his honest opinion.

Smith didn’t hold back on the Full Send Podcast about the Los Angeles Lakers drafting Bronny James 55th in the 2024 NBA Draft. “Let’s cut the BS—there’s no question this was a favor,” he said. “Bronny James did not do what it takes to earn a spot on an NBA roster.” He suggested that the Lakers drafted him to keep LeBron committed to the team, with other teams like the Warriors and Suns reportedly avoiding Bronny out of respect for LeBron’s influence.

Bronny doesn’t seem to be impressing anyone early in his career. He is barely getting minutes for the Lakers, and the G-League has not been much better for him. Smith also pointed out that Bronny reportedly played part-time in the G League, only going to home games so he doesn’t have to fly commercially, calling it a “slap” to the teammates fighting for their spots.

Smith’s Advice For Bronny James And His Path Forward

Smith encouraged Bronny to focus on earning respect in the G League, suggesting that at some point, Bronny should declare, “I don’t want this anymore.” He further said, “The Los Angeles Lakers draft you 55th overall, and on opening night, you find yourself in the lineup alongside LeBron James. It’s historic—but at some point, Bronny needs to say, ‘I want to earn my place.’” Smith also acknowledged the pressure of being LeBron’s son, noting, “I’m not saying he hasn’t shown he’s worthy, but that’s what needs to happen.”

Smith acknowledged the challenges of being part of the James family legacy, but he insists that Bronny must embrace the grind to prove himself. “He’s got to earn his stripes in the G League, prove he’s worthy of being here,” Smith said. “He can’t rely on LeBron always being there to protect and cover for him.”

While many debate whether Bronny deserves his NBA roster spot, the Lakers have continued to excel, boasting a 10-5 record. Still, Bronny is getting all the heat, and as Smith said, “When you’re occupying an NBA roster spot, people will ask: ‘Isn’t there someone else more deserving?’” For Bronny, the answer to all the criticism is to work hard and make a name for himself. He won’t have an easy time, but if he sets his mind to it, he can prove the haters wrong and earn his place in the league.