Video: Paul George Defends Lakers' Bronny James from 'Unfair' Criticism; He's 'a Kid'

Bronny James has faced his fair share of critics early in his NBA career, with some pundits believing he may not have been drafted at all if it weren't for the wishes of his superstar father, LeBron James, to play in a game with him.

Philadelphia 76ers star wing Paul George said during Monday's Podcast P with Paul George Presented by Wave Sports + Entertainment, however, that he believes James has been the subject of undue criticism.

"Obviously I think it's fair game. He shouldn't be protected because he's Bron's son," he said. "Everybody's gonna get criticized. Yeah, he was the 55th pick, but he's also the son of the best—or one of the best—players to ever play the game of basketball. It's unfair, to some degree. You don't allow him to kind of navigate and find himself. This is a kid we're talking about, who's trying to find his way in the NBA and live out his dreams. No one starts out perfect at anything. He's trying to find the NBA game. He's trying to figure this out. ... It's a tough space for Bronny to be in."

The younger James—who will spend time with both the Lakers and the team's South Bay G League affiliate this season, per head coach JJ Redick—has made one appearance for L.A. thus far in the 2024-25 campaign, missing his only two shot attempts and failing to score.