"It's the first game" - LeBron James reviews Bronny James' Lakers preseason debut performance

LA Lakers rookie Bronny James got his first taste of action against NBA players, but his father LeBron James did not suit up with him. LeBron was on the sidelines cheering on his son as the Lakers took on the Minnesota Timberwolves for their first preseason game on Friday.

The Athletic's Jovan Buha interviewed LeBron during a Lakers practice session to ask his thoughts regarding Bronny's first time playing against NBA players. The four-time MVP seemed reserved in answering and did not divulge too much info into how he felt.

While the Lakers lost their first preseason game 124-107, LeBron talked about how he, his son, and the team are approaching these crucial preseason moments.

"I mean, it's the first game," LeBron replied. "We've got three practices on our belt, today makes four. I think for Bronny, for everybody, we want to continue to try to get better and better. You know it's always great to get things going, to see what we need to work on, to see ways we can continue to be better. It was great to see Bronny out there, it was great to see (Lakers coach) JJ (Redick)."

LeBron continued by saying that it was great to see their other teammates put in the work as well.

The Lakers did not make a lot of moves this offseason roster-wise, but they have to get used to a new scheme under head coach JJ Redick. Aside from having a new coach, rookies Dalton Knecht and Bronny James, as well as the latest acquisition in Christian Koloko, will need to integrate with LeBron James and the squad's other veterans.

As such, the practice sessions and preseason games are vital in preparing for the 2024-25 campaign.

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Bronny James struggled in his first preseason game with LeBron James in attendance

Bronny James' development will be something that Lakers fans and critics will be looking at this season. While his lone season in college and his performances during the Draft Combine and Summer League gave people a clue on what to expect, fans got a more solid grasp on how he'd fare in the pros in his first preseason game.

Against the Minnesota Timberwolves, Bronny came off the bench and played for 16 minutes. He appeared to struggle on offense, only going 1-for-6 and missing his only 3-point attempt. He also registered one rebound, one assist, as well as one turnover, and was -12 on the +/-.

While he had a lackluster showing on offense, he displayed the defensive abilities that he possesses. He registered three blocks including one that resulted in a Rui Hachimura 3-pointer.

LeBron James and Anthony Davis did not play but were on the bench. Meanwhile, Wolves veterans Mike Conley and Rudy Gobert saw action along with 2024 Sixth Man of the Year Naz Reid and newest acquisition Donte DiVincenzo.