Bronny James sits out Sunday's California Classic game with left knee swelling, set to return for Wednesday's finale

Sports | July 8, 2024, 4:53 a.m.

Bronny James made his professional debut with the Los Angeles Lakers at the California Classic but will sit out against the Golden State Warriors due to minor swelling in his knee. Lakers summer league coach Dane Johnson is taking a cautious approach, aiming for James to return for their final game against the Miami Heat. Despite a subpar debut, James showed flashes of his defensive potential but needs to improve his offensive game, particularly as a distance shooter. The Lakers are focusing on developing him slowly, with a likely stint in the G-League with the South Bay Lakers. While fans are eager to see James play, the team is prioritizing his long-term success by being cautious with his injury. Summer League serves as a platform for young players to showcase their skills and fit within a team's system, with team success taking precedence over individual performances.