The Los Angeles Lakers drafted Bronny James with the 55th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. He made history appearing alongside his father this season, but the 20-year-old is a serious basketball player. Bronny ranked 17th in his high school class ahead of Reed Sheppard, Yves Missi, and several other talented players. LeBron may have helped him get to the Lakers, but the 6’2 guard has the potential to be an impactful NBA player if he reaches his ceiling.
Bronny has played just 18 minutes with the Lakers and is one of eight shooting from the field with four points, two assists, one steal, and one block over seven contests. These are not exactly earth-shattering numbers. LeBron’s eldest son has received most of his run in the G League, but he was not playing in road games until dropping 30 against the Suns.
James needs reps to reach his ceiling. Here is a look at how the 20-year-old is faring in the G League and why the Lakers should create a new plan to maximize his development.
Bronny James needs to maximize his reps in the G League
Through seven contests, James averages 13.4 points, 3.4 assists, 3.1 rebounds, 1.1 steals, and 0.7 blocks in 27.0 minutes per game. He is shooting 37.4 percent from the field and 21.2 percent on his threes. Those are small samples. Bronny has taken 99 field goal attempts and 33 3-pointers, but the stats do not scream NBA rotation player.
James suffered a cardiac arrest at USC and quickly jumped to playing professionally. He is still finding his footing and adjusting to the speed of the game. It was positive to see him playing on the road and traveling to the G League showcase. Those games made his next steps crystal clear.
James needs to play as much as possible with the South Bay Lakers this season. Scouts were unanimous in this opinion (subscription required), according to Marc Stein.
Bronny is just 6’2. He needs to be able to create and make jumpers to keep opposing defenses honest. The 20-year-old has shown flashes on the defensive end and as a point guard but needs time to blossom in that role. Getting those G League reps against professional players is a must. It does nothing for Bronny to sit on the bench and watch the Lakers. Let him play.
The Los Angeles Lakers must decide between maximizing their present and building for their future. They may win one or two more games with Bronny James being with his father in LA, but the rookie's development hinges on playing with South Bay. It is time for the Lakers to let him improve and see what the 20-year-old can become.