Apr 27, 2022; San Francisco, California, USA; Denver Nuggets center DeMarcus Cousins (4) reacts after making a three point basket against the Golden State Warriors in the third quarter during game five of the first round for the 2022 NBA playoffs at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports

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“They aren’t really serious” – DeMarcus Cousins blasts Lakers management for drafting Bronny James

Cousins believes drafting Bronny James signals the Lakers' shift from pursuing championships to chasing celebrity.

When the Los Angeles Lakers picked Bronny James, son of their star forward LeBron James, in the NBA draft this past June, they undeniably boosted the team’s overall morale. Adding the son of a legendary player to your roster can certainly have that effect.

Yet, the real question is whether Bronny will actually make a difference on the court. Many experts remain doubtful about his readiness for the NBA, and it’s clear that he has a significant amount of development ahead before he can truly contribute as a professional player.

DeMarcus Cousins questions the Lakers’ priorities

One of the voices raising doubts about this move is former All-Star center DeMarcus Cousins. During Tuesday’s episode of Run It Back, Cousins shared his skepticism with host Michelle Beadle, suggesting that by drafting Bronny, the Lakers may be showing a lack of commitment to winning.

“I don’t really think the Lakers are serious anymore,” Cousins said. Love everything that (LeBron) stands for … as far as the Lakers actually competing, I don’t know. I take that as a sign that they aren’t really serious.”

"I don't really think the Lakers are serious anymore." – @boogiecousins #DeMarcusCousins thinks the #Lakers pairing #LeBron with #BronnyJames shows they aren't serious about winning anymore 😱🤔

WE'RE LIVE RIGHT NOW: https://t.co/1ZUVUwg6po #RunItBack #NBA #FanDuel pic.twitter.com/EMzR3TSocE
— Run It Back (@RunItBackFDTV) October 15, 2024

Cousins’ comments carry weight, especially since he was once part of a Lakers team led by LeBron during their 2020 championship run, although he didn’t play due to an ACL injury.

“The way their season ended last year with the high expectations, I expected more from them as far as making moves,” Cousins added. “I do like the kid from Tennessee [guard Dalton Knecht] that they drafted. I think he can be an instant impact player for them. They had a lot of concerns last year that I don’t think really were addressed.”

This critique highlights that Cousins believes the Lakers still have unresolved issues from their previous season that may hinder their ability to meet expectations.

Image Credit: © Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images

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Natasha Bose

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