Bronny James spent most of his rookie season grinding in the G League, but year two feels different. The son of LeBron James has his sights set on a bigger role in Los Angeles, and he’s looking to prove he belongs in JJ Redick’s rotation.
The Lakers drafted Bronny for more than his last name. Scouts and coaches believe he can bring defensive energy, pressure opposing ball-handlers, and add secondary playmaking, the type of role Gabe Vincent has filled.
The difference? At just 20 years old, Bronny has fresher legs and explosive athleticism, giving him upside Vincent can’t match.
The Challenges and his decision ahead of the new season
Size and shooting remain the big questions. At just under 6’3”, Bronny is undersized for most NBA guards, and his rookie-year 28% from three won’t cut it. If he can develop a reliable jumper and find ways to compete against bigger opponents, his path to minutes will open quickly.
There’s no escaping it. Having LeBron as your father is both blessing and burden. Bronny got drafted in large part because of the James name, but now every mistake is magnified. To complicate matters, LeBron’s own tenure with the Lakers looks to be nearing its end, raising questions about how committed the franchise will be to his son long-term.
One thing is for sure, Bronny James wants more minutes and that is something he has put his mind into. But will it be with the Lakers, that is the correct question. And even if he moves, is some team ready to give him more without his father by his side?
A Crowded Backcourt
The guard rotation in Los Angeles won’t be easy to crack. Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves headline the starting backcourt, with veterans Marcus Smart and Gabe Vincent waiting behind them. Even role players like Jared Vanderbilt and Dalton Knecht can slide into guard spots. For Bronny, finding real minutes will take consistency and patience.
Bronny will enter training camp with a shot to prove himself, but don’t be surprised if he splits time between the Lakers and the G League once again. More reps, more confidence, and more time to polish his game could set him up for a real breakthrough later in the season, just in time for the playoff push.
