Bronny James Prepares for First NBA Matchup Against LeBron on Christmas

Bronny James is beginning his third season with the Lakers without his father, LeBron James, who left Los Angeles for the Philadelphia 76ers after eight seasons. Bronny said he felt LeBron’s absence at media day but is eager to experience the season independently, establish himself and keep developing; he said they each have their own path. After averaging 2.9 points in 42 games last season, Bronny is focused on earning a role behind Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves as the reshaped Lakers build team chemistry. The Lakers and 76ers are set to meet in Los Angeles on Christmas, giving father and son their first chance to play against each other.
Bronny said his guaranteed $2.3 million contract and his family name motivate him to prove himself on his own terms: “It’s a motivating factor for me just getting up every day and trying to prove myself as Bronny instead of LeBron.”
Bronny’s first two NBA seasons included historic moments with his father: they became the first father-and-son duo to play together in the NBA, and later combined for a 10-0 run in a playoff win over Houston.
Bronny has been more productive in the G League than in the NBA: across 25 G League games over two seasons, he averaged 18.4 points, 4 rebounds and 4.4 assists while shooting 41.3% from three.
Bronny said the Lakers’ young roster is building chemistry through energy and effort, adding that the team expects to play fast and has players who can raise the intensity of a game.
The Lakers and 76ers are scheduled to meet again in Philadelphia on March 4, following their Christmas Day game in Los Angeles.
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