Lakers fans have a big Bronny James question after Game 1 loss to Thunder

Bronny scored 10 combined points in Games 3 and 4 against the Rockets after going scoreless in the first two games. More importantly, he provided the defensive versatility that the Lakers desperately needed with star guard Luka Doncic sidelined by a hamstring injury.

Turns out, Bronny’s expanded role existed only because of roster injuries.

Austin Reaves’ return triggered reduction in playtime for Bronny James

Lakers fan favorite Austin Reaves missed the start of the postseason with a Grade 2 left oblique strain. His absence originally opened the door for Bronny to step into a meaningful role under coach JJ Redick.

Reaves returned for Game 5 against Houston on April 29. Lakers reporter Jovan Buha explained the rotation decision on his podcast. "Austin coming back will probably take the Bronny minutes," Buha said.

Both combo guards handle the ball and defend on the perimeter. Reaves posted a career-best 23.3 points per game this regular season. A veteran with those numbers always takes priority in a playoff setting.

Bronny was drafted 55th overall in 2024 and still carries a developmental label. His career NBA averages sit at just 2.7 points and 1.1 assists across 69 games.

Game 1 of the second round against Oklahoma City added another layer. Reaves shot just 3 of 16 from the field with four turnovers in that loss. Bronny logged only one minute and 45 seconds in that contest.

LeBron publicly backed his son before the rotation completely shifted. "He earned and he deserved," LeBron James said of the playoff minutes. That praise was based on real on-court results during the Rockets series.

The real explanation behind this rotation shift is straightforward. His minutes came directly from injuries to players above him. When healthy guards returned, the rotation simply returned to normal.

Game 2 is Thursday night in Oklahoma City, and all eyes will be on Redick's rotation decisions. Will Bronny get another chance, or will the Lakers stick with their struggling veterans? The answer could determine the direction of this series.

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