The Los Angeles Lakers have moved Bronny James down to their G League affiliate, the Coachella Valley Lakers, after the guard featured only rarely during the team's 7-2 opening to the campaign.
According to ESPN, the assignment was made on Thursday. Rookie Cameron Carr was also sent to Coachella Valley on the same day.
James, 22, is in his third season and has made five appearances for the Lakers so far. In those outings he has averaged 2.4 minutes and 0.8 points per game.
His limited role comes as the Lakers sit among the early leaders in the Western Conference. ESPN reported that they share top spot with the Houston Rockets, who are also 7-2, and the Portland Trail Blazers, who are 6-1.
The developmental league has been a more productive setting for James. Across 25 games over the past two seasons with the South Bay Lakers, he averaged 18.4 points, 4.4 assists and 4.0 rebounds. He shot 49.6% from the field and 41.3% from three-point range.
The South Bay side has since been rebranded and relocated, becoming the Coachella Valley Lakers for this season. Rather than playing at the Lakers' practice facility in El Segundo, the team now hosts games at Acrisure Arena in Palm Desert.
The affiliate has also changed coaches. Alex Cerda has taken over from Zack Guthrie, who moved up to join JJ Redick's staff with the senior Lakers team.
Coachella Valley begin their season on Friday with a home game against the Salt Lake City Stars, giving James and Carr an immediate opportunity for regular court time.