The Los Angeles Lakers’ new crop of rookies will take center stage at the upcoming NBA Summer League.

As reported by Dan Woike of the Los Angeles Times, Dalton Knecht and Bronny James have secured spots on the summer league roster. Head coach JJ Redick will not be on the sidelines but will play a pivotal behind-the-scenes role. Knecht was drafted as the No. 17 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, while James was picked at No. 55. This summer league stint will mark their first appearance in Lakers jerseys.

James, notably the son of Lakers legend LeBron James, is poised for a highly anticipated debut, drawing attention not only for his family ties but also for the extensive media coverage surrounding his journey to the draft. Expected to soon sign a multiyear rookie contract with the franchise, James will begin his professional career alongside his 20-time All-Star father. Statistically, James faces a significant adjustment to the NBA, having averaged 4.8 points, 2.8 assists, and 2.1 rebounds in 25 games during his freshman season at USC, with limited starts for the Trojans who finished with a 15-18 record.

For James, the summer league represents a critical opportunity to acclimate to the professional game and measure himself against fellow young prospects. Meanwhile, Knecht arrives with momentum from an impressive tenure at Tennessee, where he averaged 21.7 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game, earning SEC Player of the Year honors. At 23 years old, Knecht brings experience and aims to make a compelling case for a starting role or significant minutes with the Lakers in the upcoming season.

The Lakers will tip off their summer league journey on July 6 at the California Classic, facing off against the Sacramento Kings in what promises to be an exciting showcase of young talent.