The Lakers are in trouble, having seen two of their biggest talents – Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves – hit the treatment room with hamstring and oblique injuries, respectively.
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There is never a good time for injuries. But the illnesses of Doncic and Reeves are especially untimely at this time of year for a Los Angeles roster that was hoping to make a run to the Western Conference Finals — if not more.
With Doncic and Reeves out of commission, Lakers head coach JJ Redick will have to get creative. How can one change one’s level of domestic production? Some have questioned whether Redick could turn to a famous name to help Los Angeles get back on track: Bronny James.
With that said, here’s how injuries to Doncic and Reeves could impact James’ minutes.
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Will Bronny James start for the Lakers?
With Reeves and Doncic shrouded in fog, the question remains: Will James break into the starting lineup in the coming weeks?
As of April 5, James has made two starts in his illustrious career. He wants to see as many minutes as possible with Reeves, Doncic and Smart sidelined. However, this may not be reflected in his starting totals.
The Lakers have only a half-game advantage over the Nuggets for third place in the Western Conference. They have shown no desire to give James many opportunities in his two-year career. It’s hard to imagine they’ll show enough confidence to give him the start in the stretch run.
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Redick is expected to replace Doncic and Reeves and put the ball in the hands of LeBron James. Luke Kennard will likely slot into the two-guard spot, while Rui Hachimura will slot into the starting five in Doncic’s absence. Jake Laravia and DeAndre Ayton are likely to be in the starting five.
More: How Luka Doncic’s hamstring injury affects the Lakers’ playoff picture
How many games has Bronny James started?
As of April 2, James has only counted two starts In his career. He started the final game of the 2024–25 season. He also started in the Lakers’ November 15 duel with the Bucks. He only played 10 minutes in that contest, so the start doesn’t mean James will get starting minutes.
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Lakers guard depth chart
As the season approaches its peak, Kennard is the likely guard to leap into the starting lineup. Smart should also earn some shine – especially once he returns from his ankle injury.
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PG |
sg |
|
Luke Kennard |
Marcus Smart – Out |
|
bronnie james |
Luke Kennard |
|
kobe buffkin |
Jake Laravia |
|
Marcus Smart – Out |
Dalton Connacht |
|
Nick Smith Jr. |
bronnie james |
More:What did LeBron James say about the city of Memphis?
bronny james season statistics
Here’s a look at James’ numbers in his second season in Tinseltown.
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39.1 percent field goal shooting
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37.5 percent 3-point shooting
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85.7 percent free throw shooting
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