The theory comes from Stephen A. Smith

LeBron JamesLAPRESSE

Stephen A. Smith believes LeBron James quit social media to protect his son from criticism as the 20-year-old Los Angeles Lakers’ prospect was sent to the G League after struggling to adjust to life in the NBA.

Picked in the second round from the USC Trojans, Bronny made history when he appeared alongside his dad as they became the first ever father-son duo in NBA history, on the court at the same time and on the same team.

However, after averaging just 0.7 points per game, 0.2 rebounds and 0.3 assists, albeit in limited minutes, JJ Redick decided to send the up-and-comer to the South Bay Lakers to get away from the spotlight and to keep developing his game.

Even there, he has been unimpressive as he posts just five points per game, 2.5 rebounds and three assists as he does little to dispel rumors of an air of nepotism surrounding his rise in the sport.

So in light of that, LeBron announced he was leaving social media on November 21 in a sudden post that nobody expected and Smith suspects it’s all to do with Bronny instead of anything to do with the 39-year-old.

“LeBron James electing to get off of social media,” Smith said on his First Take show. “Is that because of you, LeBron James, or is it because of your son, Bronny James and his struggles? Truthfully speaking, it only makes sense that it’s Bronny James.”

Smith went on to add: “LeBron James is one of the most scrutinized players in the NBA because when he came along is when social media shortly followed.

“So we understand that LeBron James has received a heightened level of scrutiny, but we also understand that he’s fully capable of taking and absorbing it and stomaching it. So why step away now?”

Smith expects Bronny to come good

Bronny has never really lit up the basketball court on offense, only going on to average 13.8 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 2.7 assists his senior year at Sierra Canyon, despite the school going on to win titles.

Combined with his NCAA stats of 4.8 points, 2.1 assists, and 2.8 rebounds per game before being drafted, it doesn’t come as too great of a surprise that he isn’t taking to the NBA like a duck to water.

However, despite the struggles at the dawn of his professional career, Smith tips him to come good eventually.

“Not to be redundant, but I think it’s necessary to be that way,” Smith said of Bronny being sent to the G League. “Bronny James doesn’t belong in the NBA. Not yet.

“Some people say never. I don’t believe that. I think the kid has a chance, but he’s not ready yet.”