The Los Angeles Lakers faced a tough 136-108 defeat to the San Antonio Spurs on Tuesday night, dealing with a heavily depleted lineup. Star players Luka Doncic, LeBron James, and Austin Reaves were sidelined due to injuries, with additional absences including important rotation contributors Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart. This void gave rising talents a chance to gain valuable playing time against the Spurs.
Bronny James Shines Amid Lakers’ Challenges
With several mainstays missing, the Lakers saw two-way players like Drew Timme and Luke Kennard lead scoring with 14 points each. Other two-way signees Nick Smith Jr. and Chris Manon also logged minutes. Notably, rookie Adou Thiero returned from injury, while Bronny James emerged with a standout performance. James posted a season-best 12 points on five-of-ten shooting, including two successful three-pointers, along with three rebounds, six assists, and a block in 25 minutes on the court.
During the game, James notably held his ground against the towering Victor Wembanyama in the second quarter, drawing an offensive foul despite the mismatch in size. In the final period, he delivered a highlight play by blocking Kelly Olynyk, pushing the fast break on his own, and finishing with a three-pointer to energize the Lakers’ efforts.
Despite this promising display, Lakers head coach JJ Redick remained cautious when discussing James’ performance after the game.
Well, I think the takeaway, you know, in terms of the physicality that we wanted on defense, he had two really good possessions in the first half against Wemby,
Redick said to reporters.
Redick chose not to elaborate further and quickly concluded his remarks, signaling measured expectations for James moving forward.
Bronny James Focuses on Defensive Role
After the game, Bronny James emphasized defense as his primary contribution to the team rather than offensive output.
I’d say defensively, that’s my role that I want to excel at,
James explained.
We have a lot of guys, Luka, LeBron, AR. Those guys can go get buckets whenever we need them. But they need guys like myself, Vando, Jake, guys who can defend.
Over 28 games this season, James has averaged 2.3 points and 1.3 assists while shooting 40.7 percent across 7.5 minutes per game. His playing time has fluctuated, as he did not appear in recent games against the Philadelphia 76ers or the Golden State Warriors.
Prior to facing the Spurs, James was assigned to practice with the Lakers’ G League team, the South Bay Lakers, aiming to build confidence and consistency. He has participated in nine G League contests, averaging 12 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 4.8 assists, shooting 45.1 percent overall and 29.2 percent from three-point range.
As the Lakers work to develop his rhythm, James is expected to continue balancing time between the NBA roster and South Bay. His recent effort against San Antonio serves as a reminder of his potential impact as he strives to solidify his place in the rotation.
Several Lakers are out tonight on this second night of a B2B.
Adou Thiero is off the injury report, though, giving the rookie a chance to play for the first time since December 30th. pic.twitter.com/UJAhvpSq97
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) February 10, 2026
JJ Redick talks to the media after the #Lakers lose to the San Antonio Spurs, 136-108. pic.twitter.com/WwvdemUhVh
— Spectrum SportsNet (@SpectrumSN) February 11, 2026
“I'd say defensively. That's my role that I want to excel at … We have a lot of guys, Luka, LeBron, AR. Those guys can go get buckets whenever … But they need guys like myself, Vando, Jake, guys who can defend” – Bronny James ranking his block on Olynyk over his 3 on him pic.twitter.com/kTCtgkL5yW
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) February 11, 2026
The Los Angeles Lakers have assigned guard Bronny James Jr. to the South Bay Lakers.
— Trevor Lane (@TrevorLane) February 9, 2026
