Fans were stunned when Bronny James didn’t suit up for the Lakers’ California Classic opener, but the second-year guard is keeping his eyes locked on development, not drama.
No-Show Sparks Confusion and Fan Frustration
The Los Angeles Lakers tipped off their Summer League campaign with a surprise: Bronny James wasn’t in the lineup. While the crowd at Chase Center expected to see the 20-year-old guard suit up, Bronny appeared in street clothes, sitting courtside as the Lakers faced the Golden State Warriors.
The starting five, Dalton Knecht, Cole Swider, Trey Jemison III, DaJuan Gordon, and DJ Steward, took the floor instead, ultimately falling 89–84. But fans were more focused on who wasn’t playing.
“Bro needs reps as much as possible,” one fan vented online.
“Why are we load managing 20-year-olds??” another posted.
The Lakers haven’t given an official reason for Bronny’s absence, but the move drew instant backlash, with many questioning why a young player entering just his second NBA season would be sidelined during crucial development reps.
Focused on Year 2: Leaner, Sharper, More Professional
After an up-and-down rookie year, Bronny is treating Summer League, and the upcoming season, as a reset.
“This year, I’ll be able to go out and play with freedom,” he said.
“Last year was difficult… I’m excited to play without nerves.”
He’s also putting in the work off the court.
“My main focus is being in elite condition,” Bronny revealed.
“Eating healthy. Being a professional. I’ve been running a lot, getting leaner… I still got 215 [pounds] on me.”
That approach reflects maturity beyond his years. Despite the weight of expectations, and accusations of nepotism, Bronny is laser-focused on carving his own path.
Defensive Grit Over Flashy Stats
The young guard understands his role won’t be filling up the scoreboard. At least not yet.
“There’s gonna be guys that can score 15, 20 a game. I’m most likely not going to be that guy right now,” he admitted.
“To get myself on the floor, I’ve got to be a defensive menace.”
And if his G League stint is any indication, he’s capable. In 18 games last year with South Bay, Bronny averaged 18.6 points, 4.8 assists, 4.6 rebounds, and 1.7 steals. These were flashes of the well-rounded game he’s working to bring to the NBA stage.”
Looking Ahead: Will Bronny Play in Vegas?
The Lakers next hit the court July 10 in Las Vegas against the Dallas Mavericks. All eyes will be on Cooper Flagg vs. Bronny, if the second-year Laker is cleared to play.
Whether or not he starts in Vegas, Bronny’s mindset is already in midseason form:
“Whatever they put me in, defense, offense, whatever my role is, I’m ready.
Be a good teammate. That’s the goal.”