Lakers Rookie Bronny James Hit With Reality Check From Charles Barkley

Charles Barkley is happy to see Bronny James make it to the NBA and get a chance to play alongside his dad, Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James. However, the hoops icon knows very well that things will only get more difficult for the youngster moving forward.

The Lakers made Bronny James the 55th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, a decision that sparked plenty of criticism as fans believe the son of LeBron James didn't deserve it and was only taken because of his dad's influence.

Bronny James averaged just 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds and 2.1 assists on 36.6 percent shooting during his one-and-done season with the USC Trojans. He played in just 25 games after suffering from cardiac arrest in the offseason, which delayed his collegiate stint.

Speaking on the "Throwbacks" podcast recently, Barkley opened up about Bronny James' journey to the pros and how "glad" he is that the youngster is "healthy." Nonetheless, the former NBA star-turned-TV commentator couldn't help but share that there are, unfortunately, plenty of challenges that await the 20-year-old guard.

"It's not going to be easy because he has a target on his back because of his last name," Barkley explained.

"There's going to be a certain amount of petty jealousness from people, like, 'You don't deserve to be in the NBA.'"

Charles Barkley advised the Lakers "to handle this thing with kid's gloves, literally," pointing out that they "just can't put him out there" since Bronny James is still an "unfinished product."

It remains to be seen how Bronny James' rookie year will pan out. He's expected to play a lot of games in the G League as the Lakers try to develop him. But it will definitely be interesting to see how he performs on the court when he gets the chance to play alongside the rest of the Lakers' roster in the regular season.

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