Devean George: Time for Lakers to see what Bronny James can do

LeBron James is headed to the 76ers. Devean George believes Bronny James should stay exactly where he is.

The former Lakers forward and three-time NBA champion told TMZ Sports that LeBron’s departure could give Bronny the space he needs to begin establishing his own identity.

“I think it’s a good situation for him,” George said. “I think he needs space away from his dad, in my opinion. Let him do his own thing. Okay, he got here. What can you do?”

Bronny entered the NBA with more attention than just any No. 55 overall pick in league history. He spent much of his rookie season moving between the Lakers and the G League while becoming part of the NBA’s first father-son teammate pairing. He seemingly took a small step last season.

But with LeBron gone, the novelty is over. Bronny can now be evaluated like any other young player trying to establish himself. George believes the Lakers should give him that opportunity.

“If the Lakers really feel like Bronny is an asset,” he said, “they should prove it by putting him out on the court.”

George also suggested Bronny has been protected during the early stages of his career. In his view, it’s time to stop handling him differently and find out whether he can earn a legitimate role.

That doesn’t mean the Lakers should simply hand Bronny minutes. It means his development no longer needs to be viewed as part of LeBron’s story.

He’ll definitely have his work cut out for him, with the likes of Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, Collin Sexton and potentially rookie Cameron Carr (and others) ahead of him on the depth chart.

LeBron will chase another championship in Philadelphia. Bronny now gets the opportunity to show what he can do in Los Angeles without his father standing beside him.