Is Bronny James playing tonight against Sacramento Kings? Latest on Lakers rookie's status for Summer League (July 6)

Bronny James will make his LA Lakers debut at the 2024 NBA Summer League California Classic on Saturday against the Sacramento Kings. He is part of the team's roster and is expected to suit up for the Lakers Summer League opener. It's a solid opportunity for Bronny to prove his worth after severe criticism that followed after he signed a $7.9 million guaranteed rookie deal.

It's considered a rare contract for a No. 55 selection in history. Bronny's upcoming NBA career has already been under immense scrutiny, with talks of nepotism around his selection in the draft. He didn't have a promising college career, prompting critics to question his prospects entering the league.

With the Lakers picking him in the second round, the media attention brought to him has only increased over time. However, a decent Summer League showing can give Bronny a chance to prove that his game does fit the pros more than it did in college.

He has the tools with impressive athleticism and a feel for the game, so the Summer League would be perfect to gauge how ready he is for the NBA.

Bronny James to spend more time in G League

While Bronny James has already signed a guaranteed deal, it doesn't certify his place in the Lakers' rotation. According to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, barring an early season appearance, Bronny is expected to play most of the season with LA's G League affiliate, South Bay Lakers.

It's a common developmental program for any second-round pick, especially when the rotation is stacked with more veterans and developed talents. The Lakers have 14 other guaranteed players on the team, making it difficult for Bronny to find time to play alongside his dad on the floor.

It would also limit his growth for the future. The Lakers always planned to see through Bronny's development, and the G League could allow them to do that. He still has plenty to improve despite having the tools to succeed with tremendous upside as a point-of-attack defender and 3-point shooter.

Bronny James played only six months of college basketball, averaging a measly 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists in 25 games. He shot 36.6%, including 26.7%. Bronny was returning from a hiatus because of a cardiac arrest last August, so some of that derailed his game in college.

With a seemingly early entry in the NBA, the 19-year-old's best path forward would be to continue improving in the G League.