The Lakers' plan for Bronny James became much clearer Friday, when reports emerged that the franchise intends to send the rookie to the G League after its five-game road trip. For now, however, that means James will be available for coach JJ Redick through Nov. 6.
The 20-year-old James made history in his NBA debut, joining his father to become the first father-son duo to share the floor in NBA history. He played about two minutes, missing his first two shot attempts, before sitting out the second half.
James' path to playing time is likely blocked in a close game. A lopsided result, regardless of which team it favors, could be enough to put the rookie on the court for some developmental minutes, though. The Lakers certainly hope they can build a sizable enough lead against the Suns on Friday to make that scenario possible.
Here's a look at James' stats from the Lakers' game against Phoenix on Friday night.
Bronny James played nine minutes in his NBA debut against the Warriors earlier this week, but the 20-year-old did not see the floor in the first half of that game. Neither did he play in the first two quarters Friday against the Suns.
His father LeBron James finished the first half with four points on 2-of-6 shooting from the floor.