Bronny James is no longer just a sideshow. After a promising Summer League performance and a year of G League growth, the 20-year-old guard is finally closing the gap between potential and production.
Now, his head coach is laying out the path forward and it’s all about identity, not stardom. The Lakers have made a decision, and coach JJ wants him as part of the next year’s rotation.
Redick’s Message Is Simple: Get in Elite Shape — Or Get Left Behind
In a recent interview with ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, Lakers head coach JJ Redick offered blunt but hopeful advice for Bronny as he enters Year 2.
“The biggest thing for Bronny is that he has to get in elite shape,” Redick said. “That’s the barrier of entry for him right now. And if he does that, I think he’s got a chance to be a really fantastic player in the NBA.”
Redick isn’t asking for superstardom. He’s asking for stamina and consistency. It’s not a flashy role he envisions, but a defined one rooted in two-way hustle, defensive engagement, and energy.
Redick Wants Bronny to Model His Game After These Two Role Players
Redick named two specific players for Bronny to study: Davion Mitchell of the Miami Heat and T.J. McConnell of the Indiana Pacers. Neither are household names, but both have carved out meaningful NBA careers through relentless effort.
Davion Mitchell averaged around 8 points and 1.0 steal per game during the 2024–25 season and is known for his on-ball defense and high-energy pace. T.J. McConnell made history in the 2025 Finals, becoming the first bench player to record 60+ points, 25+ assists, and 15+ rebounds in a single series. He also notched a standout Game 3 with 10 points, 5 assists, and 5 steals.
“They’re locked in on every play,” Redick said. “They impact the game on both ends with their hustle.”
That’s the mold Redick wants for Bronny: a dependable, high-motor contributor who changes the game without needing the ball in his hands every possession. Reddick wants Bronny to be a rotation player in the best shape possible.
Summer League Spark Points Toward Bigger Year Ahead
Bronny’s 2025 Summer League numbers quietly told the story of progress. Across four games, he averaged 14.3 points, 3.8 assists, and 2.8 rebounds on 47.6% shooting from the field. His confidence stood out more than the stat sheet, earning him a spot on NBA.com’s list of top sophomore standouts.
“James simply looked more comfortable running the offense and continued to shoot the 3-point shot well,” wrote Jerry Jiang.
The Lakers also saw encouraging signs toward the end of last season. Bronny’s 17-point, five-assist night against Milwaukee in March showed what he could do with meaningful minutes — especially with LeBron James expected to depart after 2026.
Final Word: The Spotlight Will Never Dim, But the Role Is Now Clear
JJ Redick isn’t asking Bronny to be LeBron.
He’s asking him to be Davion. To be T.J. McConnell. To build a role that lasts, not one that explodes and fades.
