Summer League hasn’t been easy for Bronny

Lapresse

Technically, Bronny James’ NBA career hasn’t even started yet — but concern is growing about LeBron’s son as he takes his first steps in pro basketball.

Bronny is playing for the Lakers’ Summer League team, gaining experience with the pace and the rhythm of the NBA game in an offseason competition centered in Las Vegas. After a modest four-point return in his Summer League debut, Bronny missed the second game with a knee injury before returning to face the Miami Heat on Wednesday — against whom he scored three points and struggled defensively in 29 minutes of work. The concerning displays have prompted an NBA icon to impart some wisdom to the 19-year-old.

Paul Pierce tells Bronny what he needs to work on

Boston Celtics legend Paul Pierce was a gifted scorer and an NBA champion over the course of his 19-year career. The Basketball Hall of Fame inductee knows a thing or two about taking what’s yours on the hardwood — and he is encouraging Bronny to develop an “aggressive” mentality.

“Bronny needs to be more confident on the offensive end,” Pierce said on Thursday’s edition of FOX Sports 1 program “Undisputed.”

The NBA is a “make-or-miss” league, and Bronny’s developing jump shot means he will have to place an emphasis on his defensive skillset early in his career. However, he needs some work on this side of the ball, too — Miami’s Alondes Williams put Bronny in a “spin cycle” on a key possession in the fourth quarter, converting on a layup that brought the score to 76-74, Lakers. The Heat went on to win 80-76.

Fortunately for Bronny, the Lakers have signed him to a four-year contract worth a total of $7.9 million — including $4.4 million guaranteed. Los Angeles holds a team option for the fourth and final year of that contract, an unusual one for a second-round draft pick, and new coach J.J. Redick will have to hope Bronny runs with Pierce’s advice following an underwhelming Summer League so far.