Matt Barnes said this week that LeBron James leaving the Los Angeles Lakers for Philadelphia could help Bronny James take control of his NBA career. Barnes shared the take at Ryan Garcia’s open workout in Los Angeles while discussing Bronny’s upcoming third professional season. Barnes acknowledged the debate over whether LeBron’s influence helped Bronny get drafted, but he also said the 21-year-old guard has legitimate ability. Barnes added that another college season might have allowed Bronny to establish himself more independently, though Bronny is now locked into a guaranteed Lakers contract. Can Bronny Finally Build His Own NBA Identity? Bronny James enters the season averaging 2.7 points per game across 8.1 minutes as a professional. With LeBron James no longer beside him in Los Angeles, Barnes believes Bronny has the clearest opportunity yet to show that he can compete without being defined by his famous last name. The former NBA player, who spent 14 seasons in the league, offered advice that was less motivational poster and more locker room reality check: focus on the people closest to him and keep developing his game. For Bronny, the noise around his draft history may be unavoidable, but his minutes, production, and consistency will be the receipts.