The arrival of Dorian Finney-Smith from the Brooklyn Nets could mark the end of Bronny’s NBA aspirations… At least for this season
The future of Bronny James has taken a significant turn as his journey in professional basketball faces a new challenge. While the young prospect continues to refine his skills in the G-League, the Los Angeles Lakers have made a decisive move. Opting to prioritize immediate roster strength, they signed seasoned forward Dorian Finney-Smith, filling the very position that Bronny was anticipated to occupy.
Bronny James made history by stepping onto the court alongside his father, LeBron James, becoming the first father-and-son duo to play in an official NBA game. However, the historic moment was overshadowed by the challenges of adjusting to the league’s intensity.
Bronny’s inexperience became evident, leading to his demotion to the G-League, where he now works to refine his skills and continue his development.
What does Finney-Smith’s arrival mean for Bronny James?
Last week, the Lakers bolstered their roster by signing veteran forward Dorian Finney-Smith to a four-year, $55.6 million contract, aiming to stabilize their season after a rocky start.
With nine years of NBA experience, Finney-Smith brings a reliable presence to Los Angeles, particularly in the coveted 3-and-D role. Known for his efficiency, he boasts career averages of 35.9% from beyond the arc and 43.6% from the field—numbers that significantly outshine Bronny James’ current G-League stats of 21.2% in three-pointers and 36.6% in field goals.
Finney-Smith’s resume includes 548 NBA games, providing the Lakers with the seasoned experience that Bronny, still early in his development, lacks. The gap is further highlighted by fellow rookie Dalton Knecht, who logged 154 NCAA games compared to Bronny’s 25, where he averaged just 20 minutes per game.
What is next for Bronny
With a third of the NBA season in the books, the Lakers sit in fifth place in the Western Conference with a solid 20-14 record. They find themselves locked in a fierce competition for the fourth seed alongside the Denver Nuggets, Dallas Mavericks, and Los Angeles Clippers.
While Bronny James has shown promising improvement during his time in the G-League, head coach J.J. Redick has made it clear that the team’s current circumstances leave no room for risks. With so much on the line, the rookie will have to remain patient and continue to develop his skills, in hope for a future in the NBA
