Bronny James entered the NBA under a spotlight few second-round picks have ever experienced. Drafted 55th overall by the Los Angeles Lakers in 2024, the son of LeBron James carried both enormous fan interest and intense scrutiny.
As a rookie, he logged just 181 minutes in 27 games, most during garbage time, while spending much of the year developing with the South Bay Lakers in the G League. But now, entering his second season, there’s a growing belief within the organization that Bronny could be ready for meaningful NBA minutes.
Strong Summer League fuels optimism
Following a year of seasoning in the G League, Bronny returned to Las Vegas Summer League this July looking noticeably more confident and composed. Lakers lead assistant Nate McMillan told The Sports Shop with Reese and K-Mac that the improvement was clear.
“We’ve seen a lot of growth from year one… His shot was never broken, but the confidence, you could see he was knocking down those shots, getting to the basket. Defensively, we wanted him to challenge himself to pick up the ball,” McMillan said.
McMillan praised Bronny’s ability to handle the pressure of sold-out Summer League crowds for two straight years and credited his time in the G League for helping him adjust to the pro game.
Cracking a crowded backcourt
The Lakers’ guard rotation won’t be easy to break into. Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves will start, with Marcus Smart, Gabe Vincent, and rookie Dalton Knecht expected to play key reserve roles. Bronny will likely open the season as the sixth guard in the depth chart, but that still puts him in striking distance of spot minutes if injuries hit or matchups call for his defensive presence.
McMillan also highlighted the unique dynamic of Bronny sharing the floor with his father, noting that LeBron made sure it was “always business” during games, setting the example for the team as well as his son.
From No. 55 pick to rotation player?
Head coach JJ Redick believes Bronny can be a “great player” if he gets into “elite shape”. Combined with his burst of speed, quick hands, and strength, the Lakers believe he’s on the right track.
Breaking into the rotation would be a major leap from Year 1. And if it happens, the Lakers’ late second-round pick could become one of the best selections of the 2024 draft class.
“Great young man, and we expect him to possibly get some minutes this year,” McMillan said.
For Bronny, the journey from hype-driven rookie to trusted contributor might happen faster than anyone anticipated.